Durban major routes blocked by protests over ANC candidate lists

Northern parts of Durban ground to a halt on Monday as hundreds of protesters closed major roads leading into and out of the city.

Reports suggested that the bone of contention was councillor candidate lists that do not sit well with residents of KwaMashu and Newlands.

KwaMashu residents claim their nominated candidate was not featured on the list.

Asked to confirm if protests were over the African National Congress’ contentious list process‚ KwaZulu-Natal party spokesman Mdumiseni Ntuli confirmed this to be the case‚ but would not say how many wards were affected.

“We are aware that in some communities some of our comrades are still not happy. But I can’t quantify it‚” he said.

A car and truck was set alight along North Coast road.

eThekwini Municipality said due to a number of protests in the KwaMashu and Newlands areas‚ motorists were warned that Dumisani Makhaye‚ North Coast Road from N2 to Conaught Bridge and Nandi Drive were not accessible.

“Protesters have blockaded the roads with rocks and burning tyres. Our metro police and law enforcement officials are at the scenes. We urge commuters to be cautious this morning. It is understood that protesters are unhappy with their ward candidate list for the upcoming elections. We will continue to update you‚” the council said on its Facebook page.