The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has scheduled a nationwide shutdown on Monday, aimed at highlighting service delivery challenges, including the unreliable power supply. Nonetheless, the security cluster of the country has cautioned the EFF against instigating violence during the planned shutdown. While many civil society and non-profit organizations are against the protest, a few have backed the EFF’s demand for President Cyril Ramaphosa to resign.
During a media briefing on Wednesday, Julius Malema, the leader of the EFF, made a bold statement, warning that any attempt to obstruct him would result in dire consequences. The government has also emphasized that it will not permit any violent incidents on the day of the shutdown. Malema stated, “If any individual tries to stop me, they will face the ultimate consequences. Before leaving in the morning, they should say goodbye to their mother with a kiss.”
The demands were played down by the Minister of Police, Bheki Cele, who emphasized that the government would not succumb to any threats. Speaking during a media briefing in Pretoria with Justice Minister Ronald Lamola and Defence Minister Thandi Modise, Cele assured the citizens of South Africa that the security cluster was fully prepared and capable of dealing with the situation. Furthermore, they pledged to take a firm approach in response to any attempts to compromise the nation’s security.
While the exact details of the shutdown remain unknown, the EFF has rallied businesses, taxi associations, and the freight industry to down tools, adding pressure on the government to respond to the country’s socio-economic issues. Despite this, the government has made it clear that it will not tolerate any violence and will take the necessary measures to ensure the country’s safety and security.