LISTEN: eThekwini Mayor says security personnel on high alert ahead of national shutdown
Durban mayor Mxolisi Kaunda has warned protesters they will face the full might of the law if protest action turns violent ahead of the planned national shutdown.
ETHEKWINI mayor Mxolisi Kaunda said the City of Durban remains on high alert if the proposed national shutdown on Monday, March 20, gains traction.
The shutdown has been called for by the political party, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), who are demanding an end to load-shedding and the resignation of president Cyril Ramaphosa.
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Kaunda said that City leadership has been assured by the Economic Freedom Fighters that the shutdown will be peaceful and there will be no disruptions.
He added that Metro Police and the SAPS are working on a security plan to ensure ‘that the public and the business community feel safe’.
“This city has just emerged from consecutive calamities which battered its economy and that of the country. Under no circumstances will we allow the shutdown of economic activities, no matter the gravity of the grievances. While peaceful protests are allowed, we have a responsibility to protect those who are not part of this shutdown, and it is their right to be protected.
“Those protesting must do so within the ambit of the law. Anyone undermining the authority of the state shall face the full might of the law, and we will not relent in this regard,” said Kaunda.
He added that all municipal services will be available as employees are expected to report for duty.
Meanwhile, The Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC has lent its voice in standing in opposition to the proposed national shutdown.
Prasheen Maharaj, president of The Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC, said they believe the shutdown has the potential to not only derail but also further harm an economy that is currently in critical condition.
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