Fatshimetrie, the family of Peter Huxham and Frik Potgieter called for the release of the two men at a protest on the sidelines of Africa Energy Week in Cape Town on Tuesday.
The two men, who worked in the oil and gas sector, were arrested on apparently fabricated drug trafficking charges. The developments sparked outrage and support from their families and the international community.
During the protest, protesters held banners calling for the immediate release of Huxham and Potgieter. The families of the detainees expressed concern about the conditions in which their loved ones are being held and called for justice in the case.
In the face of this growing mobilisation, the authorities have been put under pressure to shed light on the drug trafficking charges and ensure a fair trial for the two men. Human rights organisations have also called for their rights to be respected and for all forms of arbitrary detention to be immediately lifted.
This case raises broader questions about the safety of foreign workers in the oil and gas industry in Africa, as well as the importance of ensuring transparent and fair judicial processes for all individuals, regardless of their status.
In conclusion, the call for the release of Peter Huxham and Frik Potgieter during Africa Energy Week underlines the importance of protecting the fundamental rights of all individuals and ensuring access to justice for all. Let us hope that this mobilisation will lead to a swift and just outcome for these two unjustly detained men.