MK Party protests outside estate in Somerset West over alleged racism

CAPE TOWN - The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party in the Western Cape staged a demonstration against racism at Blue Rock Estate in Somerset West on Saturday.

The party said the protest followed alleged repeat incidents of racism in the area, with black residents allegedly being told to vacate the estate. 

Blue Rock Estate was previously occupied by white residents only.

The MK Party claims one of its members in particular, who lives in the estate, has faced racism for the past two years.

Provincial leaders said that despite multiple discussions with estate management, and promises to address the allegations, no progress has been made.

MK Party provincial organiser, Siyabonga Booysen:

"The member inside has suffered; he can't even go to work. The children are not doing well in school. The family is in disarray because of these incidents. We’re calling for counselling for the family, and we demand accountability from all those who are responsible for this recklessness and negligence."

MK Provincial Head of Security Xolani Rhula said they had been talking to the estate management on many occasions about the issue of racism in the area.

"The issue is that we cannot be in South Africa and still turn a blind eye to racism. We believe that if you are a housekeeper of a criminal, then you are a criminal as well."

The organisation submitted a memorandum to management, demanding that the affected member not pay rent for the next three months, among other requests.

The party has given the estate's management seven days to respond, meanwhile, estate management has declined to comment on the situation.