During a recent meeting, the Cabinet has stated that lawlessness will not be tolerated during next week Monday’s national shutdown, which will be organised by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF).

“On the so-called national shutdown, Cabinet expressed concern over calls for protest action planned for Monday, 20 March, and deems such calls as irresponsible and reckless. The justice cluster is seized with work to ensure that lawlessness is not tolerated,” said Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.

Additionally, SAPS says they have measures in place to ensure the safety of civilians and businesses during this time.

On Thursday, Defence Minister Thandi Modise said members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) will be on standby in the event of violence during the shutdown.

“There was a question of whether or not the SANDF will be deployed,” said Modise. “We are in [on] standby.”

Darul Ihsan Media Desk