President Cyril Ramaphosa to address the nation at 8pm

President Cyril Ramaphosa will address the nation at 20h00 this evening, on developments in relation to the country’s response to the Coronavirus pandemic.

The address follows meetings in recent days of the National Coronavirus Command Council (NCCC), the President’s Coordinating Council (PCC) and Cabinet.

President Ramaphosa also hosted a virtual engagement, yesterday between government and inter-faith leaders on the COVID-19 Risk Adjusted Strategy which is an inclusive national effort that enables adaptive responses to the shifting pandemic.

This engagement focused on the unfolding pandemic in the country and on the continent, including efforts to secure vaccines for all.

The last time the President addressed the nation was on 28 December 2020, where he announced a return to an adjusted Level 3 lockdown, as well as a new 9pm-6am curfew and another booze ban.

The Presidency announced that Minister in the Presidency, Jackson Mthembu, tested positive for COVID-19.

Mthembu took the test earlier on Monday after showing some symptoms.

"As per the COVID-19 regulations, Minister Mthembu as well as those who have come in contact with him will immediately self-quarantine," the Presidency said through a statement.

Mthembu is the fourth member of the executive who has tested positive in the past week, along with Employment and Labour Deputy Minister Boitumelo Moloi, Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister David Mahlobo, as well as governance's Obed Bapela.

"We once again urge all South Africans to play their part by continuing to regularly wash/sanitise their hands, properly wear a face mask and practice physical distancing at all times," said Mthembu said through the statement.

The Presidency said the minister remained in high spirits and wishes all those also fighting the coronavirus a speedy recovery.

 

Done By: Mitchum George