COLIGNY – North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo has called for calm in Coligny following renewed violent protests.

The granting of bail to Pieter Doorewaard and Phillip Schutte was accompanied by violent protests that resulted in the torching of three houses in the area.

A huge police presence has since been deployed to Coligny, which remained tense as protesters demand the cancellation of bail of the accused.

Protesters accuse the justice system of being soft on rich white farmers nabbed for allegedly committing crimes against poor black residents.

Mahumapelo, who is calling for calm in Coligny, on Tuesday said a “Reconciliation, Healing and Renewal Forum” was being established in Coligny.

VIDEO: Coligny farmer’s house torched, journalist attacked

“The forum will comprise of stakeholders in Coligny and will strive to bring lasting peace and stability through the programmes that will constitute part of the forum,” said the premier.

The department of Justice and Constitutional Development in the North West has also called for calm and tolerance.

“The department condemns in strongest terms all forms of violence, destruction of both state and private properties.

“Communities need to adhere and abide to the rule of law, and refrain from acts of vigilantism and hooliganism,” said department spokesperson, Thabo Seadira.

However, residents continued protesting on Tuesday afternoon. They are demanding that Doorewaard and Schutte be re-arrested and placed back in custody.

The N14 highway, near Coligny, has been rendered impassable after protesters left debris, including rocks, strewn along the thoroughfare.

African News Agency