Some shops in Estcourt have remained closed following last week’s massive protest against illegal foreign nationals operating businesses in town.

During the march on Friday (April 24), Inkosi Langalibalele Municipality Mayor Mduduzi Myeza noted that a number of shops believed to be owned by undocumented foreign nationals were not open. He said these businesses must stay closed until their owners provide a clear explanation for the closure.

Shop owners claim fear, not non-compliance

One shop owner, who reported having visited the mayor’s office today (April 28), told the Estcourt News that he was confident that all required documentation was in order. However, he said he was still asked to explain why his shop had been closed during the protest and was instructed to return the following week.

Other shop owners echoed similar concerns, explaining that their decision to close was driven by fear of potential looting rather than any failure to comply with regulations.

Municipality to monitor business compliance

Ahead of Friday’s march, the mayor introduced a task team to monitor the operations of local businesses. The initiative aims to ensure compliance with legal requirements while addressing community concerns surrounding foreign-owned enterprises.

On his Facebook account, the mayor urged the community to assist the team and keep an eye on all the shops that didn’t open during the march.

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