Free State Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae, alongside MEC Jabu Mbalula and Provincial Police Commissioner Thabang Lesia, addressed the media at OR Tambo House ealier today, regarding the province’s state of readiness and safety measures ahead of the planned nationwide march set to take place on 30 June, calling for the removal of illegal immigrants.
Letsoha-Mathae said government had engaged with various stakeholders to ensure the safety of all residents across the Free State, with law enforcement agencies and private security deployed to monitor the situation and prevent criminal activity.
“We have heard the concerns of our people regarding illegal immigrants and the impact they believe this has on opportunities. However, we urge residents to express themselves through lawful and peaceful means, and not resort to violence during the march,” said Letsoha-Mathae.
She reassured residents that normal operations would continue uninterrupted and encouraged the public to go about their daily activities without fear.
“Businesses can remain open and employees can continue with their duties as normal. Police presence in key areas will ensure the safety of residents throughout the march,” she said.
Letsoha-Mathae added that measures had been put in place to safeguard freedom of movement and ensure that residents are not prevented from carrying out their daily activities.
While acknowledging the constitutional right to peaceful protest, Letsoha-Mathae stressed that authorities would act swiftly against any form of criminality.
Lesia said police are aware that criminals often exploit peaceful protests and assured the public that officers would remain on high alert.
“We have deployed our forces across the province to monitor hotspot areas and respond swiftly should any incidents occur. We also have aerial support available to assist anywhere in the province if needed,” said Lesia.
He added that contingency measures are in place should violence erupt, but these would not be disclosed for security reasons.
Authorities identified several areas as potential hotspots, including the Bloemfontein CBD, taxi ranks, industrial and commercial zones, as well as access routes along the N1 Highway.
Compiled by Sibongile Selomane
