Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
24 October 2023 | 11:00 CAT
1-min read

Picture: BDS

The Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) Movement is organising a National Day of Action on October 28th, with planned activities across major South African cities. Abeeda Adams from the Palestine Solidarity Campaign discussed the initiatives leading up to the event, emphasising the strategic demands the movement is making of the South African government.

According to Adams, the Day of Action aims to push the South African government for a comprehensive BDS package against the State of Israel, including the expulsion of the Israeli ambassador and the severance of all diplomatic ties. The BDS movement is also pressing for the prosecution of South Africans serving in the Israeli Occupation Force, citing existing legal provisions.

When asked about potential obstacles, Adams pointed to the economic considerations and the influence of donors, citing an instance of Paramount, an ANC donor, the owner of which is a Zionist. Adams emphasised the need for increased governmental action, urging the ANC to align its policies more closely with their symbolic gestures of solidarity.

Discussing the effectiveness of boycotts, Adams acknowledged their strategic importance while cautioning against the inadvertent targeting of non-pro-Israeli individuals and businesses. The interview further revealed the BDS movement’s specific boycott calls, including Puma, Cape Union Mart, and Clover, owing to their ties with Israel.

Adams stressed the importance of educating the public about the rationale behind these boycotts and clarifying that emotional reactions should not overshadow the strategic nature of the BDS movement. The organisation is continually reviewing its approach and calls for cooperation from various Palestinian solidarity organisations.

Listen to the full interview on Sabaahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat.