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Violent riots in Johannesburg 100 days before South Africa's World Cup
3 Mar 2010South African police have fired rubber bullets and water cannons at protesters in shanty towns near Johannesburg after an officer was shot in the chest.
Eleven demonstrators were arrested and the policeman was in a stable condition in hospital. Protesters have blocked a main road with burning tyres and boulders for more than a week.
With just 100 days to go before the football World Cup in South Africa, the country's government is concerned about the effects of violent protests on its image.
Activists want to pressure the African National Congress, in power since the end of white-minority rule in 1994, to improve healthcare, housing, education, roads and water.
“We want better lives, development and dignity. Each and every time we voted for the ANC but it seems we are forgotten,” said Nicky Khulu, a 29-year-old unemployed resident of Orange Farm, a township outside Johannesburg.
“Politicians have money for big houses, luxury cars and expensive clothes but they are not earning their money by doing things for the poor. For 20 years I have lived in a shack. Nothing has changed for us after apartheid ended. Things have got worse.”
South Africa emerged from recession in the third quarter of last year but is only projecting modest growth. President Jacob Zuma's government says infrastructure is a priority.
Reader views (3)
The crime in SA has been part of the history of the Country for many years, long before we started noticing it in the news. during the apartheid times it was as bad as it is now, the whites were less exposed then what they are today the rest of the nation has never seen any difference in the number of crime related deaths, just a difference on who carries them out these days.
the World cup will be a great event and if the fans respect the rules and instructions that will be given to them to the letter, they will be fine. South Africa is a beatiful Country and the fans will love it. enjoy one of the most beatiful places on Earth. crime will be watching us all but just keep within the boundaries that will be given to you walk in groups and be wise with your personal belongings and you will be fine.
- Francisco, Cardiff UK, 11/04/2010 18:23
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i wouldnt go to the world cup if i was given a private jet and 5 million quid and lodgings at winnie mandellas house in j,burg ,and 1000 pair of bullet proof boxer shorts.
- Scony, middlesbrough, 22/03/2010 13:24
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I wonder how many football supporters don't make it back? How SA got to host this event is beyond me.
- Frank, Home Counties, England., 03/03/2010 12:34
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