A statement doing the rounds on social media that landlords may not collect rent for the next 90 days has been marked as fake news.

The fake statement claims to be issued from the Ministry of Health. It reads that the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma gazetted a new rule that landlords are not allowed to collect rent from their tenants as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. However, the government has confirmed that this statement is false.

People are advised to always fact check before sharing anything COVID-19 related on social media. Always refer to the official government or departmental website, as well as reputable news sites.

Here are some useful links to refer to:

– SA Coronavirus official site

– SA Department of Health

Anyone that creates or spreads fake news about the Coronavirus COVID-19 is liable for prosecution. Verify the information before you share information.

Report fake news through the Real411 website: www.real411.org or the Whatsapp line 067 966 4015.

Picture: Pixabay

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