R2K KZN calls for release of Umlazi activist

Right2Know KZN joins in calling on the South African Police Services to release Umlazi activist Bheki Buthelezi, who was arrested at his home early this morning.

In addition to representing the Unemployed People’s Movement and Democratic Left Front, Comrade Bheki has marshalled support for the Right2Know Campaign in his area. Today he stands accused of intimidating the local councillor (Nomzamo Mkhize), after mounting service delivery failures in Umlazi led to community protest on 8 June. As always, Bheki has been central to organising his community around these issues, and it appears that his role as a community leader has led to his being singled out for police intimidation.

While there is a popular misconception among media professionals that freedom of expression is primarily a “media freedom” matter, more often the fight for free speech is happening on the ground, in communities that are ignored and struggles that are marginalised. Bheki Buthelezi and many other residents of Umlazi are exercising the right to see injustice and speak out against it, and as is too often the case, those who exercise free speech and the right to assembly become targets for harassment and intimidation by the authorities.

We condemn any attempt to silence voices of dissent in Ward 88 (Umlazi), and call for Bheki Buthelezi’s immediate release!

Letters of protest may be sent to the Umlazi Police Station to the Station Commander: Brigadier M.E. Zondi at fax number: 031 918 8185, and via SMS on 082 331 9650.

For comment please call:
China Ngubane, R2K KZN: 072 651 9790