The government says its noted the public outrage following the Clicks advertisement where black hair is portrayed as “dry and damaged”.
It says whilst its equally disturbed by the crude racist display by the advertisement in question, the acts of lawlessness of vandalizing and burning down Clicks stores that have been reported yesterday are concerning and go against the spirit of peace and respect for human rights.
Minister in the Presidency Jackson Mthembu says engaging in lawless behaviour is not a responsible way to resolve conflict.
The EFF has led the campaign of targeting Clicks stores countrywide in the wake of the furore that erupted over the advertisement by hair product company TRESemme’ which was published on the Clicks website.
Meanwhile, the Clicks retail group says protest action by the EFF was reported at 425 of its stores across South Africa on Monday.
At least count 51 stores had closed in the Western Cape, 92 in Kwa-Zulu Natal and the Eastern Cape, and 302 in Gauteng and elsewhere.
Clicks said it strongly condemns violence of any kind, intimidation of staff and its customers and the vandalism of its stores.
It said all incidents of criminal behaviour had been reported to the authorities.
Clicks said in a statement that it had taken full accountability and apologised unreservedly for the offending advertisement published on its website, but would continue to trade as it regards itself as a much-needed healthcare service in the country.
EFF leader, Julius Malema, has vowed to keep Clicks Stores closed for the rest of the week.
