GCIS
There was a mixed reaction from some political parties to the decision that South Africa move to lockdown Level 3 on 1 June.
The DA welcomed the move, the IFP said it was “premature” while the EFF rejected the decision.
"While it is critical that we now save what can be saved in our economy, it must be said that by the time alert level 3 comes into effect in a week’s time, it will be a full six weeks too late," said DA interim leader, John Steenhuisen.
"South Africa has now entered its ninth week of hard lockdown, which makes ours the second-longest lockdown in the world, after only Italy. By 1 June, we will have surpassed Italy. Our economy could barely withstand the initial three weeks. This extension has come at an enormous cost to millions, and there is very little to show for it in return," Steenhuisen said.
The Inkatha Freedom Party’s national spokesperson, Mkhuleko Hlengwa, said they remained "cautious of the very difficult announcement" made by Ramaphosa.
"While we welcome the gradual reopening of the economy, this decision by the National Coronavirus Command Council requires exceptional attention to detail and careful consideration for the lives and livelihoods of South Africans," Hlengwa said.
Government’s efforts to date had been commendable, despite a few hiccups during the 59 days of the nationwide lockdown. However, the transition to level 3 "while premature", would require the full cooperation of all sectors of society.
The Economic Freedom Fighters rejected the decision saying, “it effectively ended the lockdown”.
“Government’s decision to uplift the lockdown regulations happens on no sound scientific and epidemiological basis,” the party said.
“Up to this point, the South African Covid19 curve of infections has worsened over the last week. All this happened under a lockdown,” the EFF said.
(Additional reporting African News Agency – ANA)
