As the 2019 academic year begins, universities across the country have been in disarray and turmoil as students have rallied together to protest various issues at their institutions. These protests have obtained nationwide attention for various reasons but more prominently, the death of a Durban University of Technology student, Mlungisi Madonsela. The young man was killed during clashes with security on campus during a protest raising questions regarding what the Constitution says about our right and our responsibility to protest.
Law Focus this week will analyse Section 17 of the Constitution which states that everyone has the right to assemble. To help us understand our right to protest we speak to a Law student, Patrick Kadima, to explain the role of the SRC and university rules around protest action. We also speak to Zandile Jiyane, from the Freedom of Expression Institute to unpack the difference between a legal and illegal protest.
This edition of Law Focus is brought to you by Wits Radio Academy: Produced by Simba Honde and hosted by Veronica Makhoali, Sesethu Zingelwa and Siyabonga Motha. Technical production by Kutlwano “Gwinch” Serame.