Stadium restrictions killing small businesses, says supporters association
The National Footballers’ Supporters Association (NAFSA) has called on the government to lift the ban on matches attendance at stadiums countrywide.
The association, together with the EFF supporters, marched to the Orlando Stadium on Saturday ahead of the Soweto derby between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.
Spectators have been banned from attending matches since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic in March 2020.
NAFSA national coordinator Mpho Seoka says the restrictions have led to massive income losses.
“In normal stances the derby would have moved to FNB stadium, over 500 security personnel would have been employed that day and a number of cleaners hired after the match played.
“The taxi industry and other transport systems, merchandisers, and informal traders would have taken advantage of the football game to make extra income for themselves. How long will this go on and we are told stadiums can’t be open, but they were opened for political gatherings during elections.”
Sports Minister Nathi Mathethwa says the decision to lift the restrictions at stadiums lies with the National Coronavirus Command Council.
“These are matters decided by the NCC, and the council is going to meet over this matter, we are saying things must open, livelihoods must go back to their place without being reckless.”
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