Funding crisis: DA calls for leadership from President Zuma

21 October 2015

The Democratic Alliance calls for calm and restraint by both SAPS and protesters in the wake of the breaching of the parliamentary precinct by students fighting against the exorbitant cost of higher education.

The critical nature of the situation demands decisive leadership and an urgent response from President Jacob Zuma. Government cannot remain silent any longer.

In an astounding failure of leadership on the part of the government, today, Minister Nene failed to address the funding crisis in his budget, offering no relief to students. The President now has no option but to make a commitment to the nation on how this issue will be addressed.

We urge President Zuma to address the nation as a matter of urgency in order to restore calm.

Statement issued by Mmusi Maimane, Leader of the Democratic Alliance, 21 October 2015