Punches were thrown in South Africa’s parliament last night as opposition MPs tried to disrupt the State of the Nation address by President Jacob Zuma.
Members of the radical Economic Freedom Fighters’ party (EFF), all dressed in red, fought with security guards who ejected them from the chamber.
Mr Zuma had twice got to his feet but was shouted down by EFF MPs.
Outside parliament, police used stun grenades to disperse opposition and government supporters.
Mr Zuma has been determined by allegations of corruption and cronyism and widely criticised for his handling of the economy.
Previous addresses by him have been tainted by MPs demanding his resignation.
As Mr Zuma entered parliament in Cape Town on Thursday he was met by chants of “thief” by EFF MPs, who included their firebrand leader Julius Malema.
Members of the governing African National Congress (ANC) countered them by chanting “ANC, ANC”.
Amid raised voices and chaotic scenes, Speaker Baleka Mbete tried to deal with repeated interruptions and procedural questions.
BBC

What's your reaction?
0Like0Dislike

Leave a Comment