South Africa will not tolerate the violence and destruction of property that have accompanied nationwide protests against a lack of basic services in townships, President Jacob Zuma said on Tuesday, according to Reuters. "There is no cause in a democratic and free society, however legitimate, that justifies the wanton destruction of property and violence that we have witnessed," Zuma told a special meeting attended by mayors of the country"s 283 municipalities. "This government will not tolerate the destruction of property, the violence and the intimidation that often accompanies protests," Zuma said. Police last week fired teargas and rubber bullets to break up protests in several townships. Protesters blockaded roads with burning barricades and have also burned down libraries and the homes of local government officials. --SPA
