WATCH | Mbalula defends Ramaphosa, dismisses calls of national shutdown

Cape Town — African National Congress (ANC) secretary-general, Fikile Mbalula, urged South Africans not to get caught up in the alleged national shutdown aimed at President Cyril Ramaphosa.

It is alleged that the shutdown was due to President Ramaphosa’s comments regarding the country’s new visa policy with Nigeria. It was said across social media that Ramaphosa was “selling the country”.

Mbalula clarified what Ramaphosa meant by his comments and said that he did not imply Nigerians could travel to South Africa without a passport. Still, instead, the deal was to improve and ease trade relations between the two countries.

Speaking to the media outside Luthuli House, he dismissed any idea of a national shutdown.

“We dismiss the so-called national shutdown as a failed attempt to sow chaos. These opportunists have no plan for building South Africa, only destruction. To our people we say reject these distractions and remain focused on rebuilding our communities and creating opportunities for all,” he said.

“The ANC remains resolute in defending South Africa’s sovereignty, uplifting its people, and ensuring that our country is a home for all who respect its laws and contribute positively to its growth,” he added.

Mbalula said Ramaphosa would continue to be defended and the party remains focused on leading the country.

“We are here to lead and will not falter in this responsibility. We will not betray values and principles. Ramaphosa is a product of the democratic process and leading the ANC. The attack on Ramaphosa is an attack on our nation including the ANC,” he said.

These opportunists have no plan for building South Africa, only destruction. To our people we say reject these distractions and remain focused on rebuilding our communities and creating opportunities for all.

WATCH BELOW:

Picture: X/@MbalulaFikile

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Compiled by Matthew Petersen