Davids hailed by protestors

Journo becomes focus of anti-Israel feeling

Gadija Davids may not have reached Palestine, but the previously little-known Cape Town reporter was yesterday the toast of thousands of protesters who chanted her name as they marched outside parliament. 

The 25-year-old radio journalist from Strandfontein, who until last week had never travelled more than two hours from her parents' home, is now at the centre of a massive international outcry over an Israeli air and sea attack on a humanitarian aid convoy to Gaza.
Nine people died in the attack.
As outrage grew across the globe yesterday, the South African government recalled its ambassador to Israel, Ismael Coovadia, for consultations.
Outside parliament, about 3000 pro-Palestinian protesters demanded government take further steps to distance itself from "Apartheid Israel".
"Viva Gadija Viva," the huge crowd chanted in unison, along with other refrains.
Many protestors praised Davids for her bravery. Mercia Andrews, spokeswoman for the Palestinian Solidarity Group, said: "We think it is very important that a young journalist is there and able to have first-hand experience. We're glad she is safe."
Addressing the angry crowd, former Intelligence Minister Ronnie Kasrils - one of several high-profile Jewish critics of Israeli policies - spoke of a new groundswell against Israel's treatment of the Palestinian population in Gaza.
"Once again Israel has gone too far. We as South Africa must be in the lead. We want a total, total final break with Zionist Israel," Kasrils said.
Speaking to The Times late yesterday, Foreign Affairs spokesman Malusi Mogale confirmed the diplomatic recall of South Africa's ambassador "to register our strong condemnation of the government of Israel". Coovadia would consult with senior government officials, including President Jacob Zuma, Mogale said.
"However, I must stress that at this point in time there is no discussion in government about severing diplomatic relations with Israel," he said.
Meanwhile, back in the Davids household, Gadija's mother, Mogboeba Davids, was in high spirits after speaking to Gadija for the first time since her Monday ordeal.
"She sounded all right. She is with the South African ambassador in Ankara [Turkey] and she will be flying tonight [Thursday]," her mother said.
Gadija's dad, Mogamat Davids, said his daughter's biggest concern now was how to handle being a celebrity.
"We told her that the media is hunting her, and she said 'But I didn't do anything'," Mr Davids said. "She is worried she won't be able to walk to Claremont without being recognised - or go to Newlands to watch the Stormers."