SA Lockdown restrictions: Mixed reaction from opposition parties
It seems opposition parties are not in agreement, as far as the new lockdown restrictions are concerned.
In the wake of a second wave of COVID-19 infections, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a string of tighter measures aimed at curbing the further spread of the disease, as the country enters the festive season.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has expressed support for just some of the restrictions, including the stricter enforcement of level 1 restrictions, and the reduction in the number of people permitted to attend indoor and outdoor events.
“We agree that this is a necessary step to curb the spread of Covid-19 over the festive period, and we agree that South Africans must take individual responsibility to curb the spread of the virus during this time,” said DA leader John Steenhuisen.
The president announced key restrictions including extending the curfew and that alcohol sales at retail outlets will be restricted to Mondays to Thursdays between 10:00 and 18:00.
DA: Lockdown restrictions on beaches ‘will spell disaster’
Steenhuisen added however that they do take issue with the fact that certain beaches and public parks across the country will be closed.
“This restriction is irrational and will spell disaster for the hospitality and tourism industries. Ultimately, it will be the fatal blow to tourism for coastal economies bringing more economic turmoil to coastal communities,” he further said.
Ramaphosa announced that beaches in the Eastern Cape, Garden Route in the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal will be closed. Festivals, live music, and live performances at beaches are prohibited.
Meanwhile the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) has also welcomed the announcement by the president.
Speaking to Newzroom Afrika, IFP leader Velenkosini Hlabisa said:
“The IFP welcomes the address by the President as well as all the recommendations done with the intention of limiting the spread of the pandemic. We’re all aware that we just arrived at the second wave and unless stringent measures are taken, the nation will regret over the festive season”
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) is yet to officially respond, however, the party’s MP Mbuyiseni Ndlozi slammed Ramaphosa for the announcement, saying there was no sense of urgency.
“He didn’t have a plan. Such an underwhelmed performance,” he said.
“There is absolutely no sense of urgency created. Life will be normal & the virus will spread”
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