A pro-Palestinian protestor required emergency medical treatment yesterday after allegedly being assaulted by a runner during the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon.
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According to the Salt River Heritage Society (SRHS), Communicare CEO Anthea Houston was demonstrating against the current conflict in Gaza at the Salt River Circle when a participant in the race physically assaulted her, knocking her to the ground with force, before continuing his race.
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In a media statement, the SRHS said that Houston sustained head injuries and swelling as a result of the trauma and was placed under 24-hour observation in hospital.
‘The runner was unprovoked,’ said Shamil Manie, who witnessed the incident. ‘It’s shocking that he showed no remorse and made no attempt to assist Houston who was clearly injured as a result of his actions.’
The SRHS added that a case had been opened with SAPS.
‘We cannot and will not tolerate gender-based violence, especially in South Africa,’ said Lutfi Omar, chairperson of the SRHS. ‘This incident serves as a stark reminder that we must work together to create a safer, more inclusive and more compassionate society for all.’
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Meanwhile, Houston’s sister Lorna described her sibling as passionate about social justice, adding that the family was outraged by the incident.
‘Anthea works for a non-profit organisation dedicated to improving the lives of communities by providing affordable housing,’ said Lorna. ‘She attended the demonstration to show solidarity with innocent Palestinians whose homes were bombed.’
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Picture: Muaaz / Unsplash