A TVET agricultural student from Rocklands, Lefika Gaselebelwe, tells OFM News that he has resorted to selling fresh produce and snacks as a source of income. However, the recent protest action has restricted his movements, forcing him to close down shop.

OFM News interviewed another business owner who would like to remain anonymous. He says he is in full support of the fight against corruption and the wrongdoing of the municipality. However, he is of the opinion that a well-organised, non-violent march - where thousands of community members could participate - would have had better results.

He says "the violence and the looting is a pity, especially the death of the young boy". He was, however, able to keep his business running, purely because of the commitment of his team.

"A lot of people knew that the success of this protest was going to depend on people being intimidated and on violence, which is unacceptable" he concluded.

Gaselebelwe adds that he opened his small business two years ago with the hope of providing for his family and paying for his studies. The protests are now hindering these efforts.

It is apparent that many businesses closed down because of the fear of being looted or destructive behavior. Those that were able to remain open, did so by finding alternative methods.

OFM News/Lee Simmons