By Kaya 959 News
The Black Business Federation says more than 30 of its affiliates have been looted in ongoing riots in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal.
BBF is calling on residents to unite and restore peace and order, which will restore economic activity and social stability.
“The BBF categorically condemn these acts of vandalism and looting, to which we are all witnesses, which are affecting businesses of all sizes across the country. The BBF calls on the population to stop this and re-embrace peace, law, and order in our communities,” said national spokesperson, Sifiso Langa.
BBF has called for an amicable solution to this unfolding economic and social crisis.
“We implore all sections of the society to come forward and be part of the solution. This includes civil society especially community-based structures, the business community, and government leaders,” Langa said.
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Time to act
The Federations said this is not the time to analyse the situation; this is the time to act.
“We further ask all our leaders nationwide, especially in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng province, to urge their communities to participate in any business looting and destruction of public properties activities,” he said.
The Federation said while it encourages law enforcement agencies to play their part, it must be acknowledged that they cannot win this battle alone; all sections of the society must rise to the occasion and bring order.
Langa said Jacob Zuma’s incarceration could not be ignored.
“It is at the centre of this whole mayhem. While we, business and community leaders, commit to descend in the streets in an attempt to restore order in our communities, the national government together with the judiciary must look for a solution that is in keeping with the constitution of the land.
“These are unprecedented moments and surely unprecedented measures must be taken,” he said.
Shopping centres, shops and businesses across Gauteng and KZN have been looted and some set alight.
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It’s saddening that we can’t receive help because of people who steal posts but the salon really belongs to me😔 it’s up on my TL pic.twitter.com/PG3IDp2jaT
— Anothando (@anothandobee) July 12, 2021
https://twitter.com/eyecandiavenue/status/1414321075618467846
A black dentist lost his private practice simple like this….
And its normal and okay to you, cos people are hungry? pic.twitter.com/n5MMtdIr92
— Two Stones with One bird (@Amu_J) July 12, 2021
Lucky lekgwathi opened this great place just few months ago its saddening what just happened to the whole place destroyed. He employed 4 people …why destroy our own people?🥲🥲🥲 pic.twitter.com/iCdYGVhIiq
— 🕯 PRAY FOR 🇿🇦 🕯 (@mphooon) July 12, 2021