DA Welcomes Court Interdicting EFF’s National Shutdown, Dividing SA: “Political Courts in Action”

• The Democratic Alliance has welcomed a legal decision to prevent unlawful activities during the national shutdown
• Members of the Economic Freedom Fighters will not be allowed to close schools, businesses or public roads
• The Johannesburg High Court’s decision left citizens divided, with many supporting the Red Berets’ planned protest

JOHANNESBURG - The EFF will not legally be allowed to shut down schools, businesses or public roads during the national shutdown.

The decision came after the DA approached the Johannesburg High Court to interdict the planned protest. The political parties went head-to-head in court ahead of the shutdown.

Judge Leicester Adams announced his decision on Saturday, 18 March, saying EFF members would not be allowed to shut down schools, retail stores, businesses, trade or public roads. The party is also prohibited from encouraging unlawful conduct, EWN reported.

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During the nationwide shutdown, the Red Berets have been barred from blocking railway lines. Supporters and members are also not legally allowed to participate in lawless conduct.

While the DA’s attempt to declare the shutdown unlawful was dismissed, the party welcomed the High Court’s ruling. In a statement, the party said:

“This judgment is a victory for law and order in South Africa, and a win for all peace-loving citizens who want to work, learn and provide for their families without fear of violence, looting and intimidation by a group of vigilantes posing as a political party.”

Mzansi weighs in on DA’s legal victory against EFF shutdown

Bongani Mtshweni said:

“Political courts in action.”

Paul Hassett commented:

“Well done, DA. protecting the country because the government turns a blind eye to thuggery.”

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Emmanuel Lesetja wrote:

“It's a national shutdown and we not gonna protest on top of the roofs of our houses but on the streets, everyone will be affected including those who will be travelling to work using taxis and other public transport. Actually, the roads will be closed on Monday.”

Jean-Pierre Paquot posted:

“Great stuff and congratulations to the DA to obtain such a resolution for all South-African seeking peace and a future for all.”

Climate Change added:

“I feel bad when youths are being misled especially when the truth are in front of them. A time to express yourselves is here but you doubt your own self.”

Julius Malema says EFF’s national shutdown will be peaceful, Mzansi disagrees: “This will be a first”

Briefly News also reported that EFF leader Julius Malema claims the national shutdown will be peaceful.

The protest planned for Monday, 20 March, calls for President Cyril Ramaphosa to resign, deal with loadshedding and tackle crime in the country. Despite concerns suggesting the shutdown will be violent, Malema said EFF members will engage in a peaceful protest.

Source: Briefly News