The business community is calling on President Cyril Ramaphosa to stop the national shut down

 # The business community is calling on President Cyril Ramaphosa to step in amid the EFF’s calls for a national shutdown next week.

The EFF has warned that businesses that do not close on Monday, March 20, could face possible looting.

According to The Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC president Prasheen Maharaj, the event had the potential to derail and further harm the country's economy which was in a poor state.

He further said the threat of a national shutdown had the potential to encourage acts of violence and potential vandalism on property and businesses, and was illegal.

Maharaj called on Ramaphosa to deploy the SANDF to provide support and protection for business; for police units and private security to work together and adopt a zero-tolerance approach; and for a clear action plan and communication plans to be shared so that business could prepare accordingly.

The Western Cape government has come out and said it would not tolerate threats of violence and intimidation.

 

Done by: Sibulele Stuurman