Casac calls for protests after cabinet reshuffle

South Africa is in turmoil as citizens take to the streets to protest President Jacob Zuma's recent cabinet reshuffle. Save South Africa, through the Council for Advancement of the South African Constitution, has called for mass action to demonstrate anger at the President's controversial decision. Lawson Naidoo, Executive Secretary of the Council, spoke to CNBC Africa, emphasizing the need for national resources to be safeguarded and used for the benefit of the people. The protests are aimed at restoring democracy and ensuring that institutions of governance act in the national interest, free from corruption and state capture. The protests began outside Parliament in Cape Town, with people gathering to show support for National Treasury and demand the reversal of Zuma's decisions. The movement is not just about reinstating former Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan but about protecting all institutions critical to the country's stability and growth. Naidoo stressed the importance of unity among civil society groups and the public to push for change and hold the government accountable. Naidoo expressed dissatisfaction with the cabinet reshuffle, highlighting the lack of clarity in the new appointments and the disruption caused to the work done by the Treasury over the past year. The focus of the protests is on restoring sovereignty and ensuring that leaders govern within the bounds of the constitution and the law. The demand for Zuma's resignation stems from the perceived failure to act in the national interest and the alleged influence of private interests on government decisions. The call for Zuma's removal is accompanied by a demand for tangible action rather than mere statements. Naidoo insisted that the protests would continue until democracy is restored and institutions function as intended. The protests also target other controversial appointments in the cabinet, questioning the rationale behind retaining underperforming ministers and maintaining positions that raise concerns about governance and accountability. As South Africans unite in their call for change, the pressure on President Zuma mounts. The protests signal a growing frustration with the current leadership and a determination to fight against corruption and maladministration. The future of the country hangs in the balance as citizens rally for a government that prioritizes the interests of the people and upholds the principles of democracy and transparency.