Solidarity March in Rustenburg Calls for End to Israeli Apartheid and Ceasefire in Gaza

In a powerful display of solidarity with the Palestinian people, scores of individuals from the Rustenburg sub-region converged on Saturday, February 17, 2024, to join the ANC Rustenburg Local Election Team (LET) and the community of Zinniaville in a march advocating for justice and peace in Palestine. The event, part of a global movement, aimed to highlight the plight of Palestinians and call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and an end to Israeli apartheid.

Led by prominent figures including ANC NEC Member and Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Alvin Botes, Provincial Secretary of ANC in the North West, Louis Diremelo, and ANC Regional Chairperson in Bojanala, Shiela Mabale Huma, the marchers were joined by esteemed guests such as the Deputy Ambassador of Palestine, Mr. Bassam, and Brother Naem Patel from the Friends of Palestine.

Commencing from the Zinniaville Taxi Rank, the marchers made their way to the Ben Marias Hall in Rustenburg, where they convened for a rally and delivered impassioned speeches. Their demands echoed the sentiments of millions worldwide, calling for the immediate withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied Palestinian territories, recognition of the State of Palestine, and adherence to UN resolutions on the Palestinian issue.

Speakers at the rally reiterated their unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, condemning Israeli aggression and violations of human rights and international law. They commended the South African government for its proactive stance in addressing the Israeli occupation and reiterated their commitment to championing the Palestinian struggle for freedom and justice.

The march, characterized by its peaceful and well-organized nature, garnered widespread support from various sectors of society, including religious leaders, civil society organizations, trade unions, and alliance partners. Emblazoned with Palestinian flags and carrying banners bearing poignant messages, the marchers echoed chants of “Free Palestine”, “Stop the genocide”, and “Boycott Israel”.

The ANC Rustenburg LET and the Zinniaville community expressed their heartfelt gratitude to all ANC volunteers and supporters of the march, vowing to persist in their solidarity campaign until Palestine is liberated from oppression and occupation.

As the global movement for Palestinian rights gains momentum, events like the solidarity march in Rustenburg serve as poignant reminders of the power of collective action and the enduring quest for justice and dignity for all peoples.