There’s a high possibility that president Cyril Ramaphosa will extend the adjusted level 4 lockdown when he announces Cabinet’s reviewed measures to curb the pandemic later today.
According to City Press, sources have reportedly informed that Ramaphosa is likely to extend the current restrictions for a further two weeks, despite repeated pleas of restaurants and alcohol groups.
“While there seems to be an attempt to review restrictions now, this is likely to be a mechanical exercise, as all indications are that the status quo will remain, with room remaining open for additional restrictions, as Covid-19 infection numbers are still escalating,” said a Cabinet member as per City Press.
As SA Medical Association (Sama) vice-chairperson Dr Mvuyisi Mzukwa explained, political gatherings are the greatest threat because people fail to adhere to wearing masks.
The possible extension comes as South Africa still reports a high number of Covid-19 cases across the country as 21 610 new cases were recorded on Saturday July, 10.
According to BusinessTech, the Restaurant Association of South Africa (RASA) said that the current restrictions continue to destroy the industry. The association added that they have reportedly reached out to every ministerial cabinet in consultation for relief but have not received any positive feedback.
“Government has a responsibility to hear and consult with us. Retail and transport have made no compromises nor have they had any imposed restrictions or remodelled their businesses.
“The restaurant industry will no longer tolerate compromise when there is no regard to control the uncontrolled spaces or to lock down the illicit trade while we accumulate extended debts and lose our livelihoods.
“Restaurants simply cannot survive without alcohol or sit-down patrons or diner time sales,” the association said.
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