ANC Accused of Delaying Investigation of July 2021 Unrest by DA

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has accused the African National Congress (ANC) of strategically delaying an investigation into the July 2021 unrest until after the upcoming elections in 2022 in a bid to pacify internal factions. This move is expected to be sanctioned by the National Assembly, further empowering the Portfolio Committee on Police to postpone the inquiry to their successors in the Seventh Parliament.

The unrest under discussion was ignited soon after Jacob Zuma, the corruption-accused former president, presented himself to the Estcourt Correctional Facility on 7 July 2021. Zuma was ordered to serve a 15-month prison term for contempt of court after he overlooked the Constitutional Court's directive to testify at the Zondo Commission.

Following Zuma's surrender, chaos ensued throughout KwaZulu-Natal, later engulfing parts of Gauteng. The turmoil, stretching beyond political bounds, resulted in extensive looting and widespread damage to the infrastructure.

The DA's accusation underlines the political tension climate in South Africa, against a backdrop of public dissatisfaction and the upcoming elections. The delayed investigation showcases another layer of political maneuvering, further feeding existing apprehensions.