DA, ANC clash over Witzenberg school protests

THE DA and a local ward councillor have exchanged sharp accusations following a protest linked to school infrastructure concerns in Witzenberg, after the DA alleged that political incitement endangered learners and heightened tensions between communities.

- MURRAY SWART

DA constituency head for Witzenberg Wendy Kaizer-Philander condemned what the party described as the “irresponsible and dangerous” conduct of an ANC public representative, alleging that members of the Nduli community were deliberately incited to protest on Friday while learners were travelling to school using scholar transport.

The DA said the incident resulted in heightened tensions and a scuffle involving members of the Nduli and Vredebes communities, warning that political opportunism should never place children’s safety or access to education at risk.

The party linked the incident to ongoing disputes around school infrastructure development in the area, particularly plans for a new primary school in Vredebes.