Security forces in South Africa are ramping up preparations ahead of the upcoming G20 summit, with police and military units showcasing their readiness through a parade involving helicopters and motorcyclists.
On Wednesday, the South African military demonstrated its force, with an additional 3,500 police officers deployed across Johannesburg and other major cities. The military has also been placed on standby under the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure, a unified command coordinating police, military, and intelligence agencies for high-profile events.
Deputy National Commissioner for Policing, Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, confirmed that authorities expect demonstrations but emphasized that citizens’ right to protest would be respected within legal boundaries.
Authorities have designated specific areas near the summit venue, an exhibition centre adjacent to Johannesburg’s largest football stadium, to facilitate peaceful protests.
The summit, set to open on Saturday, is expected to attract leaders and diplomats from over 40 countries, along with representatives from global institutions like the United Nations.
However, the United States has announced a boycott, citing concerns over South Africa’s policies toward its Black-led government and alleged persecution of the Afrikaner minority claims widely rejected by the South African government.
The US decision to skip the summit has sparked diplomatic tensions, with South Africa rejecting a US demand that no joint declaration be issued after the meeting. Government officials confirmed that the US embassy had reiterated its refusal to participate in the summit through a diplomatic note over the weekend.
