Protest Photographer: United We Must Stand… and Continue Standing

After an eighth attempt to oust President Jacob Zuma failed yesterday, several South Africans expressed a desire to give up, but Western Cape photographer JUSTIN SULLIVAN – who has witnessed and photographed several marches on Parliament, including yesterday’s – feels we could learn something from other countries, after he noticed something… Here is his report:

“Thousands descended upon the Cape Town CBD yesterday (08/08/17) to show their support for both the opposition and the ruling party…

“It was a large turnout, but nothing compared to previous marches against the president.

“As the sun set behind the picturesque sky line of Cape Town, it was mostly EFF supporters congregating around the gates of parliament awaiting the results.

“As a nation, we can learn a lot from countries such as Egypt, Ukraine and Venezuela.. Not for their violent interactions, but for their determination and unity in times of despair.

“If we are to overcome the dire circumstances we face economically, politically and socially, we need to stand together as one.

“There was a brief moment when EFF and DA supporters marched arm in arm, just enough for the media to see a glimpse of unity…

“But as night fell, the majority of the DA and other parties were nowhere to be seen.

“Unless each and every person takes the necessary steps to unite against corruption, unaccountability and oppression, we will continue to live in a state of inequality, unrest and despair.”

Last night EFF leader Julius Malema tweeted: “Today, I’m proud to be a South African. Well done South Africa. Let’s close ranks, very soon the emperor will walk naked. #Asijiki”

All Photos © Justin Sullivan. Republished here with kind permission of SullivanPhotography. These images may not be used without permission. 

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