Several church leaders expressed outrage and dismay at the conditions announced by the government on Tuesday that in order to welcome 50% capacity of congregants ahead of the Easter weekend, congregants will be required to provide proof of vaccination at entrance or a Covid-19 test result not older that 72 hours. Failure to comply is an offence which will lead to a conviction, liable to a fine or imprisonment for a period not exceeding six months or both.
The church leaders said they could not say if their members would comply with the new regulations until they had an audience with Ramaphosa.
The backlash was led by the International Federation of Christian Churches (IFCC) which represents Grace Bible Church, Rhema Bible Church, Hope Restoration Ministries and Rhema Umtata Christian Church.
The federation has described the move as “sneaking” mandatory vaccination through the “backdoor”.
Ramaphosa’s acting spokesperson Tyrone Seale said churches can request a meeting with the president to air their grievances.
Sources: Sowetan LIVE, MSN
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