Govt tight-lipped on lockdown levels

This comes amid warnings that the country could be plunged into a third wave as the number of Covid-19 infections is expected to rise during the Easter holidays and winter season. 

The last family meeting called by President Cyril Ramaphosa was at the end of last month where the country moved to level 1. 

Three weeks later, it’s understood the NCCC has now heard submissions to tighten regulations again to slow the resurgence of cases. 

Meanwhile, the religious sector has called for leniency this time around.  

Acting minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said all submissions are still under review.  

“The National Coronavirus Command Council is meeting and considering the plans on how to manage the Easter holidays and it’s not only Easter holidays, you’ve got the Jewish Passover, which is known as Pesach, you also have the Ramadan which will also follow immediately. 

“The National Coronavirus Command Council is considering what measures should be taken, implemented during this period,” Ntshavheni added on Thursday. 

“We cannot discuss the advises that are provided either by the Ministerial Advisory Committee, the National Joint Operations Committee to the National Coronavirus Command Council. I can’t pre-empt those advises or the decision of the National Coronavirus Command Council that will then be recommended to Cabinet.” 

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She assured South Africans would be made privy to the decisions after they’ve been finalised. 

Ntshavheni slammed the leaking of information, causing a media storm.  

“In terms of speculations in terms of announcements how we are going to handle the Easter period or the upcoming religious holiday period, we are clear that there should be a plan in place that will be communicated by the President,” she said. 

“On the issue of leaks, we agree with you that the leaks are unwarranted, it’s a serious issue of ill-discipline by ourselves as members of Cabinet and those who are privy to sit in the NCCC and brief the NCCC and that will not be tolerated.” 

Ntshavheni vowed action would be taken against those found to be guilty of sharing confidential information.