Zikalala: Shutdown reports taken very seriously
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sihle Zikalala says the provincial government is not taking lightly the reports of a national shutdown.
He has given an assurance that the province’s law enforcement is on alert.
A poster circulating on social media warns of a national shutdown on Monday, together with a march through Durban.
READ: Authorities on high alert amid shutdown threats
A month ago, KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng were rocked when violence, looting and large-scale destruction of property and infrastructure erupted following the jailing of former president Jacob Zuma for contempt of court.
More than 300 people died during the week-long violence and looting, which President Cyril Ramaphosa described as an insurrection.
Zikalala said the provincial government is aware of the posters.
“We wish to state first and foremost that as the government of the people, we stand ready to engage and listen to the concerns of all citizens or any sector of our society.
READ: ANC in KZN distances itself from planned shutdown
“Protests and marches are legal in South Africa, which means that they must be conducted in terms of the law and national lockdown regulations. This right must never be used to infringe on the freedom of others,” said Zikalala in a statement.
But he said it will be business as usual in the province.
“We wish to reiterate our position that as far as government is concerned, tomorrow (Monday) is a normal working day. We call for calm as we are not aware of anyone who is authorised to carry out a shutdown of businesses tomorrow (Monday), or any other time.
“We advise employers and society, in general, to conduct their business as normal but exercise extra vigilance. The rumours are being taken very seriously and our law enforcement agencies are fully prepared to safeguard the right to life, freedom of movement, property and any other eventuality.”
READ: Police confirm protest attempt in Durban in wake of shutdown threats
Zikalala said law enforcement is on high alert.
“In this regard, our law-enforcement authorities have been alerted of this possible development and are ready to deal with the situation to ensure law and order in KwaZulu-Natal.”
