While the City of Cape Town is aware of an EFF march scheduled for Monday, no shutdown will be taking place in the city.
Also read: National Shutdown: Santaco supports EFF’s protest but won’t be joining
This is according to Mayco Member for Safety and Security JP Smith, while social media posts, warning the public of the planned mass action continue to circulate.
Smith said that the directorate was aware of the planned EFF march, adding that the party had applied for a peaceful protest permit with conditions, including refraining from intimidating city staff, entering the Ndabeni pound, and excluding taxis from the procession.
‘Some political parties and civic organisations will join their march including the South African National Civics Association, limited to 1000 participants,’ he explained.
‘These proposed shutdowns occur periodically but rarely materialise or have significant consequences.’
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‘They mainly cause panic when messages spread through WhatsApp and social media.
We condemn this tactic as it strains city employers already struggling due to load shedding and high fuel costs.’
He added that the city has an operational plan for the day in case any protest becomes violent or disrupts traffic.
‘Our operational plan includes provisions for addressing public disorder and violence, using technologies such as drones and CCTV for effective response.’
‘The city will not hesitate to pursue criminal and civil legal action against organisers or political parties responsible for gatherings or protests resulting in violence or damage to public or private property.’
‘Similar to the actions currently taken by the city in response to the violent protests initiated by the EFF and NCC.’
Yesterday, the Minibus Taxi Task Team successfully concluded negotiations and will now proceed with implementing the agreement to ensure uninterrupted transport operations.
‘The city commends Santaco for not heeding the call for a stay-away and their confirmation to stay operational on the day.’
Also read:
Court order stops ‘EFF-style’ shutdown of Mitchells Plain businesses
Picture: EFF / Twitter