South Africans are nervously bracing for a controversial “national shutdown” on Monday amid threats of violence and “looting” for those who refuse to take part.
South Africans are nervously awaiting a controversial “national shutdown” on Monday organised by the radical Marxist party, which is accused of threatening violence and “looting” for those who refuse to take part.
Amid ongoing rolling blackouts — and the looming threat of a total collapse of the power grid — skyrocketing crime and unemployment and deteriorating services, the far-left Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has announced a nationwide shutdown on March 20 to protest the ruling African National Congress (ANC) government.
But the country’s main opposition party has warned of “widespread violence” if the day is allowed to go ahead.
The EFF, which has been accused of inciting violence against white farmers through its use of the “Kill the Boer” song at its rallies, has warned businesses and shop owners to stay closed on Monday.
In a video message last week, EFF leader Julius Malema called on South Africans to “stand up, let’s go and fight, don’t be cowards”.