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Following the violent protest that took place in Swellendam on Wednesday, the Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Western Cape will be writing a letter to the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Swellendam, asking them to investigate whether any political party had a role in instigating the violent protesting and looting, that led to the municipal office building being burnt down.

There are currently rumours doing the round that these violent protests were instigated by none other than the ANC and while these accusations are currently not confirmed, they should be taken seriously.

The DA in the Western Cape wholeheartedly condemns the destruction of the Swellendam municipal offices and looting of shops during violent and unlawful protest action, which saw hundreds of people being arrested.

While we respect residents' right to protest and voice their dissatisfaction, this should never happen through the destruction of property or unlawful behaviour. When municipal infrastructure is damaged or destroyed, all residents are affected.

Issued by Isaac Sileku - DA Western Cape Spokesperson on Local Government