Promise of food leads to unrest

Update Video

GRAAFF-REINET NEWS AND VIDEO - The promise of 200 food parcels to be delivered to Mandela Park in Graaff-Reinet, made by an unknown business or individual, led to unrest near Ward Councillor Glenda Mackelina's house on 21 April.

Shortly after 10am, residents of Kroonvale gathered about 200 m from Mackelina's house, accusing her of distributing food parcels meant for the community to friends. She maintained that she was not aware of the promised food parcels.

The residents made it clear that they were hungry and would not leave before they received the food parcels. Many complained that they lost their jobs during the lockdown and were left in poverty.

Police had to secure Mackelina and her family, and they watched the unrest unfold from their home. The protesters were kept at a distance by police.

Mackelina said the uprising was looming since the previous evening, when Sassa food parcels were delivered to Kroonvale.

Police officers consulted with the protesters, as well as Mackelina, but no clarity was found on who was behind the promise of food parcels.

The ANC's regional secretary, Bennie Roman, and a member of the Dr Beyers Naudé Municipal ANC structure, Moos Mbotla, assisted Mackelina.

They began negotiating with the protesters and assured them that Mackelina did not know about the promised food parcels. Under strict police supervision and with the support of the ANC members present, Mackelina was led to the protesters, where she explained her innocence to them. She made it clear that she did not know about the promised food parcels.

Ward committee members also came to her rescue and promised that they will investigate the issue.

The protesters dispersed but said that they are still waiting for food.

Police and army patrols have been increased in the area to prevent further unrest.

Watch a video below.