Attribution: Photo by Vitalina from Pexels

The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) and the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL Rights Commission) released the 2021 July Unrest Investigative hearings reports yesterday. 

The two reports by the two Chapter 9 bodies are based on the investigative work on specific issues following the unrest in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng in July 2021.

In July 2021, South Africa experienced a period of unrest in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng. This occurred during a challenging time for the country, marked by social, economic, and political tensions. The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic added to the difficulties. The country was grappling with high unemployment rates, reaching an all-time high of 34.4% by June 2021.

Amidst these challenges, the possible imprisonment of former President Jacob Zuma further heightened tensions. On 29 June 2021, the Constitutional Court found Zuma guilty of contempt of court and sentenced him to 15 months in prison. This decision sparked protests by his supporters outside his home in Nkandla, which lasted from 30 June to 7 July 7 2021.

Subsequently, from 8 to 19 July 2021, the unrest spread, leading to acts of protest, violence, and looting. The impact on the economy was significant, with an estimated R50 billion in financial damage and approximately 353 lives lost.

In response to the unrest, the South African Human Rights Commission organised a National Hearing from 15 November 2021 to 21 June 2022. The aim was to investigate various aspects of the unrest and prevent a recurrence.

The commission’s findings revealed that the events during the unrest were orchestrated, involving both primary and secondary actors. While the timing coincided with Zuma’s incarceration, the commission couldn’t link the two events. Government shortcomings, including ineffective intelligence sharing and an ill-prepared police service, escalated the unrest.

Socio-economic factors, such as high unemployment and disillusionment, contributed to the extent of the unrest. Social media played a significant role in amplifying grievances and mobilising individuals toward disruptive actions. The lack of awareness among the public regarding responsible online communication also had severe consequences.

The commission made several recommendations, including improving intelligence co-ordination, addressing socio-economic inequalities, and taking proactive measures against misinformation on social media. It examined racist attacks during the unrest, revealing historical references influencing present realities. Recommendations included victim-centered approaches and efforts to address systemic racism.

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