Stop the attacks on Dlamini-Zuma, asks ANC
The African National Congress (ANC) has lashed out at what it calls the continuous attacks on Cooperative Governance Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma.
The minister has come under fire for her staunch support of the ban on cigarette sales and the sale of alcohol during the national lockdown.
But the ANC argues that Dlamini-Zuma is merely carrying out her duties.
"As the minister responsible for the coordination of our country's national mitigation efforts, Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma is engaged in discussions in Cabinet and the NCCC (National Coronavirus Command Council),” the party said in a statement on Saturday.
"It must always be remembered that the decisions of Cabinet and the NCCC are collectively taken, and should never be individualised.
"It is entirely unacceptable that there are evidently wedge drivers, who are in the service of certain businesses.
According to the ANC, the party's leaders are blatantly undermined when it comes to the proposed continuation of the ban on the sale of cigarettes, tobacco related products and alcohol.
"Those who do so show a callous lack of disregard for the health of our citizens, and seem only interested in crass profiteering.
"The ANC welcomes the diligent manner that Cabinet and the NCCC are carrying out their difficult duties. We fully support the decisions that have been taken."
READ ALSO:
President Ramaphosa to address the nation tonight
South Africa's coronavirus cases have topped 20 000, with the death toll at 407. Ramaphosa's address follows recent meetings of the Cabinet, the National Coronavirus Command Council (NCCC) and the President's Coordinating Council, which considered the prospects for the country's move from Alert Level 4 to Alert Level 3 of the national lockdown.