Mr Nono, who is blind, has been busking for a living for almost 20 years. After reported complaints from surrounding businesses, Cape Town Metro Policemen removed Mr Nono from his usual post on Monday, and were recorded dragging and beating the busker. Mr Nono’s guitar was broken in the process. The video of the incident, posted on Youtube, has accumulated more than 50,000 views.
Members of the music community and disability advocate groups like the League of Friends for the Blind were strongly represented. Many demonstrators held signs with messages like “Guitarist not terrorist” and “No Badges for Bullies.”
Mr. Nono spoke briefly and later performed. Attorneys representing Mr Nono in his case against the police attempted to interrupt interview proceedings to remind Goodman not to reveal too much about the case, but were unable to access him because of the dense crowd and media presence.
Appearing overwhelmed by emotion and the crowd, Mr Nono had to pause his speech several times to dab a handkerchief to his eyes.
While the musically inclined protesters sang anti-establishment favorites like “I Shot the Sheriff” and “One Love,” inciting widespread chanting from the crowd, Mr Nono sat to the side in his usual spot, softly strumming his shiny new guitar.
Mayor Patricia De Lille has issued a statement expressing “sincere regret”. She described the removal of Mr Nono as an isolated incident and has promised to review the City’s busking regulations.
Mr Nono.
Mr Nono’s wife, Ms Abigail Nono, overcome by emotion.
Mr Nono with a new guitar.
Donations for Mr Nono.
Charlie Chaplin demonstrates.
The crowd pushes to hear Mr Nono.