Community protests for leaders facing arson charges in Covid settlement
The reason Covid residents were in court was clear from their placards — they wanted their leaders back.
Image: Phiri Cawe
Residents of the Covid informal settlement gathered outside the Blue Downs Magistrate’s Court on Friday, June 20, calling for the release of five community leaders accused of involvement in an alleged arson attack.
Supporters held placards and chanted in support of the accused. “We will defend our leaders without fear. We don’t care what others say - we know they are innocent,” one resident said.
The protest follows ongoing tensions in the area related to poor access to electricity, water, and sanitation services.
The situation escalated after a tense meeting on Wednesday, May 21, when fires broke out, reportedly targeting the homes of leaders opposed to the ongoing protest.
During the demonstrations, which included the closure of sections of Old Faure Road and parts of the N2 highway, divisions emerged among the leadership.
Some supported continuing the protest, while others called for a more peaceful approach.
Residents of the Covid informal settlement gathered outside the court to demand the release of their five leaders, who have been accused of arson.
Image: Phiri Cawe
The discord led to chaos, with allegations that the homes of certain leaders were deliberately set alight, resulting in a legal case and the arrest of several individuals.
When the five leaders appeared in court, the matter was postponed to Tuesday, June 24.
Community members pledged continued support, describing the arrests as an unjust act against innocent people.
A community spokesperson, who asked to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity of the matter, said the community was frustrated.
“We are here to give support to our leaders, who we believe are innocent. They have done nothing. Certain individuals want to taint their names,” he said.
The incident has also affected those whose homes were set alight. A close associate of one of the families welcomed the legal action.
The message was clear outside Blue Downs Court last Friday, as residents from the Covid informal settlement gathered to show support for their leaders.
Image: Phiri Cawe
“People lost belongings, and some have nothing at their disposal because of the fire,” a resident said.
Ward councillor Ernest Madikane called for a measured approach.
“The law must take its course. It is the law that will decide who is wrong or right. We were not there, and we cannot take a side. Remember, the victims have lost big time. But whoever did that was wrong. People should not allow anarchy to rule,” he said.