The nationwide government shutdown through The Economic Freedom Fighters and some trade unions on Monday in advance on Human Rights Day tomorrow, which is a holiday that has left the nation sighing in its lungs. They are demanding the resignation of the president Cyril Ramaphosa.
EFF the EFF’s leader Julius Malema is quoted as saying that today’s protest is “the largest protest that has been successful in the history of South Africa” however as per media reports, that the magnitude of the protest is restricted.
The government could not secure an arrest warrant against the massive demonstration, however they did get an order from the High Court did specify that the protest should not be associated with violent acts or destruction of property, which happens regularly when protests are held across the nation.
In the United States, news there are reports of streets being blocked by protestors stoned vehicles, and burning tyres on the road (despite 24300 tyres “that were deliberately placed to facilitate crimes of a criminal nature” being taken by the authorities this weekend).
Live graphic of the protests that are taking place throughout the country
In the ports of Durban in addition to Cape Town the police and the National Defence Force are in place, as well as staff numbers are up to date and work is ongoing.
Certain depots in the vicinity of the port have decided to shut down however access to ports has not been hindered.
A lot of street vendors had to close their shops due to fear of being looted
Numerous schools and companies have been closed this morning in preparation for the government shutdown. It was reported that the Johannesburg city market was remarkably peaceful this morning, while customers stayed their homes.
The reports are that are coming in about EFF protesters threatening bus drivers and truck drivers in addition to reports instances of looting and vandalism in towns.
Source: The Plantations International Agroforestry Group of Companies