Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has withdrawn his challenge ahead of the national shutdown planned by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) on March 20, 2023.
The mayor recorded a video message announcing the planned action stating “We will open business as usual. Those responsible for the violence will be arrested.
“Many business owners and employers in our city have been in touch regarding the rumors of a national shutdown on March 20. Let me tell you, it will be business as usual in Cape Town.
The mayor promised that the city will do what it takes to make sure kids get to school on time, workers get to work and the economy keeps going.
ALSO READ: ‘Picket lines are calling our names,’ says Malema as ‘National Shutdown’ trends on Twitter
Speaking directly to the organizers of the closure, Hill-Lewsi said; “our economy [has already] has been brought to its knees by the burden of shedding, corruption and so on. What you’re doing is hurting our economy, hurting businesses, hurting workers, the exact opposite of what you’re trying to do. Don’t be stupid. Don’t organize a national shutdown and don’t try that nonsense in Cape Town.
National Death
According to a report by News24The EFF is planning a nationwide shutdown on March 20, demanding the resignation of President Cyril Ramaphosa and an end to load shedding.
The party also warned communities to close their businesses during strike action or risk looting.
However, the police have a responsibility to the EFF to ensure that the strike does not turn violent and that the protests remain peaceful.
Despite all this, the party continued to act in the field to mobilize the community before March 20.
EFF spokesperson Sinawo Thambo told the publication that they have opened their doors to not only tell people about the action, but to let them know how they can get involved.
Other organizations that plan to take part in the action include the SA Trade Union Federation, the SA Land Party and the United Democratic Movement.
READ NEXT: EFF ‘National Day of Action’ kills chances of failure