By Motshwari Mo Mofokeng
The Alkebu Social Movement (ASM) organized a calm and officially approved Civil Rights March in Durban CBD, gaining strong backing from informal traders and local community members.
Marchers met at King Dinuzulu Park at 10:00 before moving through the city streets to the offices of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), where they officially delivered a public memorandum.
The protest, which followed the rules for public gatherings, aimed to bring attention to issues raised by informal street traders. Participants mentioned claims of intimidation, illegal confiscations, extortion, unfair enforcement practices, and administrative problems that they say have endangered their means of making a living.
ASM officials stated that they had received many complaints from traders who rely on informal trade as their main income source. They insisted that these claims needed independent investigation and urged IPID to look into the issues mentioned in the memorandum.
The march was described as orderly and peaceful, with marshals and legal observers present to maintain order and safety. Traders, civil society groups, and youth organizations like EFF members showed their support, and local residents joined the march, reflecting what the organizers said was a widespread concern about how informal traders are treated.
