Braamfontein, Johannesburg – 10 October 2025 the Extinction Rebellion Vaal members are demanding justice for Vaal residents over Glubay mine concerns. Protest that was held was peaceful, lawful, and rooted in calls for transparency and accountability.
xtinction Rebellion Vaal concerned residents are members from the Vaal staged a peaceful picket outside the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) offices in Braamfontein. The demonstration, which began at 10am, follows months of frustration over the government’s failure to respond to community objections regarding the proposed Glubay coal mine—a project that threatens to devastate local ecosystems, water infrastructure, and livelihoods.
Despite attempts by DMRE representatives to block the protest—including legal intimidation tactics—organisers successfully navigated the issue with the law on their side and engaged with relevant departments including Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) protocols last week, securing lawful permission to proceed. The picket is not affiliated with any political party and is explicitly non-violent, aimed solely at spotlighting the systemic injustices facing mine-host communities.
The Glubay mine, set to span over 2,500 hectares near Meyerton and Vereeniging, has drawn widespread criticism for its lack of meaningful public participation. Environmental Authorisation (EA) processes have reportedly bypassed community engagement, with consultants refusing to hold meetings in key areas like Roshnee, citing “security concerns”. Residents argue this undermines constitutional rights and violates environmental legislation.
Organisers are calling for parliamentary intervention and, if necessary, a tribunal to review the licensing process. With elections approaching, they hope to amplify pressure on decision-makers and ensure that environmental justice is not sidelined by corporate interests.