Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader, Julius Malema has called on South Africans to be safe but also ready to defend the masses. Malema’s message follows in the wake of speculation of a planned national shutdown for Monday, August 23, 2021.
“Fellow South Africans, please be safe. Fighters maintain high moral and discipline but remain vigilant to defend the dejected and defenceless masses of our people. God bless South Africa,” Malema said in a tweet on Sunday afternoon.
According to the police, there have been messages circulating on social media in which people are being encouraged to take part in the supposed shutdown. It’s unclear where or how it started but thus far no one has legitimized it, with the like of the ANC in KwaZulu-Natal distancing itself from it.
Law enforcement agencies have been on high alert to respond to the situation, should the need arise. The National Joint Operation and Intelligence structure (NatJOINTS) has said all measures are in place to ensure the safety and security of all South Africans.
“Law abiding citizens should be at ease knowing that we are not taking these threats lightly. Security forces are on high alert and ready to maintain stability in the country, and ensure the safety and security of South Africans,” NatJOINTS said in a statement.
NatJOINTS has also further discouraged people from taking part in the national shutdown and warned the country that it remains under lockdown level 3 which means gatherings of this nature would be unlawful.
“We are calling on community police forums and related sub-forums to work with the police as they usually do and to mobilise the community against any form of lawlessness. Law-abiding citizens should be at ease knowing that the NatJOINTS is not taking these threats lightly,”
Sources: MSN
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