By Sihle Mkhize
March 20 will always be memorable in Mzansi’s history because of the national shutdown.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) members led by Julius Malema and other political associates including unions protested across South Africa.
According to the EFF, the purpose of the shutdown was to highlight South Africa’s socio-economic issues, including load shedding.
The intention was to bring economic activity and movement to a halt by blocking road networks and disrupting the flow of services and goods.
The EFF’s stance received some negative reception and strong criticism from the ANC through a statement.
Who will forget political activist Nhlanhla “Lux” Dlamini who defended local businesses in Soweto from possible looting.
Dlamini is known for having strong opinions against Malema leadership style and EFF policies.
Later, Dlamini expressed his dismay about the alleged bomb attack from home.
“Two bombs were thrown at my property. This is a sad moment that my family, eight people, nearly died.
“There were eight people in my house when the bombs were thrown,” he said, adding he was relieved there were no casualties,” Dlamini said as quoted in the media.
People are singing a different tune
However, ordinary citizens from townships like Lovu, Ntuzuma and around Durban CBD sang a different tune.
I had the privilege to take a taxi ridefrom Ntuzuma to the Durban CBD during that period of time.
I noticed two ladies aged between 40 and 50 years behind my seat discussing public interest trending news. And they were full of praise for Malema’s confidence.
“Malema is the ANC product, whatever he’s doing he learnt from his childhood political party.
“Look, since the protest Eskom reduced load shedding stages. He really made an impact and was an eye opener,” the lady said.
Many said indeed Malena made his political presence in Mzansi once again. And he is proud of achieving his goal to force a national shutdown.
The ANC is believed to be a problem and the EFF is the solution.
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But is it ethical for politicians to gamble with people’s lives just to score political points?
I believe we are all aware that come 2024 national elections resume in South Africa. We need to choose wisely.
