Cape Town erupted in outrage on Friday as hundreds gathered in the city’s heart to condemn America’s alleged military strike on Venezuela. Demonstrators demanded the immediate release of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, claiming they were forcibly detained and whisked to New York on January 3.
The protest unfolded along Adderley Street in Cape Town’s bustling city center during the afternoon rush. Placards reading ‘End US Imperialism’ and ‘US Out of Venezuela’ dotted the crowd, while chants of ‘Free Venezuela’ and ‘Free Maduro’ echoed through the streets. Organizers from the South African BDS Coalition rallied supporters to join a global ‘Anti-US Imperialism Action Day’ scheduled for February 6, in solidarity with Palestinians and Venezuelans.
The coalition accused the US of aggressive imperialism that risks plunging the world into broad war, severe socio-economic crises, and global destruction. ‘This open imperialist aggression is pushing humanity toward catastrophe,’ they declared in statements to the crowd.
Among the protesters was 75-year-old retired pharmacist Michael Tytus, who labeled the US operation ‘illegal.’ Speaking to reporters, he said, ‘This is just a symptom of what America does worldwide—promoting empire and bullying wherever it pleases.’ Tytus urged sustained pressure to stop the US from intimidating the rest of the world, insisting, ‘We must keep protesting until America leaves people’s doorsteps.’
University student and organizer Farik Thiba voiced fears that no country is safe. ‘This violates international law,’ he said. ‘Venezuela might just be the start—who’s next? Even South Africa could be targeted.’ He called for greater unity from Global South nations to counter the threat.
The demonstration highlights growing international backlash against the US action, with voices from Africa amplifying calls for Maduro’s freedom and an end to perceived American overreach. As tensions simmer, the February 6 global action looms as a test of worldwide solidarity.