Webber Wentzel is deeply concerned about the devastating violence and rioting taking place in parts of South Africa and the erosion of the rule of law.
While we believe in everyone's constitutional right to assemble peacefully, to demonstrate, to picket and to present petitions, as a law firm, we strongly condemn any unlawful acts of violence. Perpetrators of this conduct must be apprehended and prosecuted, and we must all play our part in ensuring that they are held accountable. We also convey our condolences to the families that have lost loved ones to the violence and our sympathy to all those affected by the unrest.
The rule of law is the very foundation of our constitutional democracy. Everyone must do what they can to ensure that the rule of law is upheld, recognising that the sustainability of all our society fundamentally depends on the adherence to the rule of law.
At this difficult time we all need to act as agents of stability - steering our conduct intentionally towards bringing an end to this situation and together growing an economy which can provide employment, education, and wellbeing to all.
Although the situation is disheartening and contributes to the significant social and economic challenges South Africa already faces – we know that our country and our people have incredible resilience and the ability to rebuild. We are inspired and called to action by the wave of volunteers already signing up to rebuild towns affected by the violence and we should all endeavour lend our hands and voices to this important work.
