Unilateral ban of stadia events imprudent

This follows the tragic event of September 2, where a young woman lost her life whilst she and other revellers were trying to gain entry into the National Stadium.   The unfortunate incident was a result of a stampede at one of the gates. It is apparent that the festival was not properly planned putting public security at risk nor were the organisers prepared for an eventuality of a stampede.

Robberies, stabbings and other violent crimes occurred during the festival and the police were unable to cope with the situation. What is even more disturbing, however, is for the government to ban festivals with immediate effect instead of first waiting for the outcome of the investigation instituted by the promoter.  Secondly, the government has power and capacity to investigate further on why the festival was a tragic disaster and come up with standards to ensure that the same mistake does not occur in future.