COVID-19: President upholds alcohol ban, locals react
President Cyril Ramaphosa has rejected calls for the lifting of the alcohol ban during the lockdown.
In a response letter to the Gauteng Liquor Forum yesterday Ramaphosa instead directed liquor sellers to seek economic relief. The Forum had recently threatened a constitutional court challenge to the alcohol ban.
Presidency spokesperson Khusela Diko says the ban remains to ensure that the regulations are not broken.
"It is for this reason government calls on business in distress to make use of initiatives set up to assist business. The regulations set up during the lockdown are not unique to the liquor industry and there is a call for all of us to abide by them during this time", she said.
Some Durban residents have shared their disappointment with the latest decision. Mzamo Vilakazi says he is not okay with the alcohol ban.
"Some stores are open so why not liquor stores too? We would not stick around... just purchase and go back home", he said.
Fabian Anderson recommends finding new ways to take the edge off.
"It is tough period. You just need to find something to keep you busy or on your toes" , he said.