Northen Cape - Children would attend school again in Olifantshoek in the Northern Cape, after Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa intervened, his office said on Tuesday.
Mthethwa was in the town to meet the community, who had demanded the mayor's resignation and accused her of corruption, said Mthethwa's spokesman Zweli Mnisi in a statement.
“In the process of raising their (the community's) issues, learners were barred from attending schools and properties were burnt,” said Mnisi.
“The fundamental issue is that learners must return to school. That is the ultimate goal of the minister's intervention.“
Mnisi said resolving the issues in the town was a collective effort.
“We have to say it was not an easy meeting, very tense, but the minister managed to calm the rowdy crowd and took charge,” he said.
“He (Mthethwa) then requested that the community appoint people whom they trust so that they can raise and discuss their grievances in a peaceful and mature manner.”
Following discussions chaired by Mthethwa, it was agreed a task team including community representatives, local government, education officials and police be formed to resolve tensions in the town.
“We remain hopeful of a speedy resolve and normalising of the situation,” said Mnisi. - Sapa