A number of political parties gathered on Wednesday 18 March to discuss a way forward from the deadly coronavirus (COVID-19). Political ploys and plots were put aside to address something far greater — a global pandemic. Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema was totally out of character, advising against public gatherings, including funerals.
Malema took to the podium alongside President Cyril Ramaphosa — at one stage even praising him — for the protective measures that have been taken against the rapid spread of the coronavirus.
“As the EFF, we fully support the initiative of government and we call upon all South Africans to listen to the leadership of our government,” said Malema.
“If you are not a close relative or friend, avoid going to funerals.”
He went on to say that it is churches that can help stop the crisis by not allowing more than 100 people to gather for worship.
“We are calling upon our church leaders to listen to our premiers, our mayors and the president,” he added.
Malema warns South Africans not to take advantage
Malema also added that certain businesses are taking advantage of the pandemic.
“All business people who are dealing with gloves, sanitisers and masks, must not try to maximise profits out of this crisis,” he said.
“We also call on private hospitals to fully cooperate with the minister of health when he needs beds for our sick people, it is not the time to make a profit. We have asked the president to make sure no one steals out of this disaster,” he said.
“We called on the president to act decisively against anyone who will want to take advantage in this situation and steal from the poor of the poorest,” he added.
EFF cancels all gatherings and events
The EFF, like many other organisations, companies, educational institutions and religious forums, cancelled their events to protect South Africans from contracting the deadly coronavirus.
“In light of the emerging health crisis with regards to the coronavirus, the EFF has taken a decision to cancel all of its major gatherings and events. This decision was not arrived at easily, but it is one that is considerate of the measures that need to be taken to curb the spread of the virus and protect South Africans,” it said on Monday 16 March.
The EFF also suggested that Robben Island in Cape Town become a quarantine site for those who test positive for coronavirus.
Source: The South African Read More
