National shutdown will be peaceful, promises Malema

Thousands of people are expected to take to the streets to protest against load shedding, and other socio-economic issues, alongside the EFF.

They will also call on President Cyril Ramaphosa to step down.

Malema, who spoke to the media on Wednesday about the shutdown, said plans for the demonstration were announced months ago.

He said they had been made aware of plans to plant troublemakers at some marches.

"How would you know there will be violence when you are the only one who says there will be violence? The DA knows there's going to be violence because it is going to deploy agents as they did during apartheid. 

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"It will not be for the best, but we are vigilant and ready for their people, so we have no history of violence during our protests."

KZN Premier Nomusa Dube Ncube has called on protesters to exercise restraint and avoid unlawful behaviour.

National police spokesperson, Athlenda Mathe says lawlessness will not be tolerated.

"It is also the organiser's responsibility to ensure we are supported, and demonstrators abide by the law and that the law of the country is compiled and NatJOINTS will not tolerate any form of criminality. It is therefore important to know that the contravening the law will be dealt with."