Only essential services for Malamulele

"The shutdown of all services will continue from Monday until Friday," said Lt-Col Ronel Otto.

 

"Only police and health officials are allowed to conduct any duties."

 

The area has been brought to a standstill in recent weeks -- with schools and businesses shut -- following a demand by residents that they be granted their own municipality.

 

On Friday, the Municipal Demarcation Board's (MDB) announcement that Malamulele does not qualify for its own municipality in terms of legislation, led to roads being blocked and tyres set alight in protest.

 

Residents have alleged that the Thulamela municipality has been channelling services to Tshivenda-speaking areas, rather than their own -- which is dominated by Xitsonga speakers.

 

Otto said that the area was quiet on Sunday afternoon.

 

"No incidents have been reported."