Didiza admits 'Operation Vala Umgodi' at Stilfontein mine presenting a dilemma for govt

JOHANNESBURG - National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza said that "Operation Vala Umgodi" at the Stilfontein mine in the North West presented a dilemma for the government between enforcing the law or protecting the human rights of illegal miners.
 
The controversial operation has seen police blocking off basic supplies to thousands of zama zamas underground, in an attempt to force them back to the surface.
 
Speaking at the Public Protector's conference on promoting good governance in Ekurhuleni on Monday, Didiza shared her thoughts on the operation.

READ: Volunteers temporarily suspend rescue efforts at abandoned mine in Stilfontein

The government’s latest initiative to combat illegal mining has led to police blocking entrances to abandoned shafts, preventing food supplies from being taken underground.
 
The move has sparked mixed reactions, with some arguing that the police are violating the human rights of illegal miners.
 
But Didiza said while this may present a challenging situation for the government, a balance must be struck between law enforcement and the protection of human rights.
 
"How do you make sure that in the context of rights, there’s also responsibility, so that it’s not rights one way but it's also responsibility in order to make sure that you do not trample the rights of others?"
 
While the Speaker refrained from giving her opinion on the matter, she said this predicament challenged the police’s scope of work.