Q: Do you think the business community is showing solidarity at this moment?

A: I don’t think so; not at this moment. They have not contributed significantly towards the struggle. It is the business community that is most affected by certain decisions that were taken by the government.

They’re the most affected people so I think they should come forward and voice their concerns about the direction the economy is taking.

Q: How impressed are you by the fact that the protests have been peaceful so far?

A: It’s quite impressive. I belong to an age when there were violent demonstrations especially against certain institutions such as those from the private sector. Those times were very violent and aggressive, and I can’t believe the way the new generation is going.

We actually have hope with this new generation – the protests are very peaceful, very creative and very focussed on what they’re asking for.

Q: Do you feel that the politicians are taking the protests seriously?

A: I think they pretend that they’re not taking the demonstrations seriously; but when you look at the actions they have taken, I feel they’re taking it very seriously.

They are probably even sleep deprived.