Just before the National Shutdown scheduled for March 20, an intense verbal battle erupted between two influential South African figures. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, a prominent member of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), and Fikile Mbalula, the Secretary-General of the African National Congress (ANC), engaged in a heated exchange.
Tensions had been brewing for days, as both politicians passionately represented their parties’ stances on the impending shutdown. Ndlozi and the EFF openly backed the call for a nationwide protest, demanding government accountability and change. On the other hand, Mbalula, a loyal ANC member, expressed concerns about potential disruptions to public order.
On the morning of the shutdown, the nation watched as Ndlozi and Mbalula’s exchange unfolded on live television. Ndlozi, known for his passionate rhetoric, accused the ANC of failing the people and fostering corruption. He urged South Africans to unite and make their voices heard, saying, It’s time for us to rise against oppression and demand a better future for everyone.
Mbalula, steadfast in his defense of the ANC and government efforts, countered Ndlozi’s claims. He argued that the shutdown could lead to chaos and further harm the country’s economy. He asserted, We must find peaceful ways to address our concerns without resorting to anarchy.
The nation was split, with some fervently supporting Ndlozi and the EFF’s call to action, while others shared Mbalula’s concerns about the potential consequences of the shutdown. Social media buzzed with the exchange between the two politicians.
Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa, aiming to maintain law and order, had deployed a substantial number of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) personnel. A total of 3,474 SANDF soldiers were stationed throughout the country, working closely with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to ensure public safety and prevent potential criminal activities.
This deployment, though necessary, incurred significant costs, estimated at over R166 million. The joint efforts of SANDF and SAPS aimed to protect citizens and property while upholding the right to peaceful protest.
As the nation held its breath on the eve of the National Shutdown, the clash between Ndlozi and Mbalula represented the deep-seated divisions and concerns within South African society. The country faced a critical juncture, with the promise of change on one side and the fear of chaos on the other. Only time would reveal the outcome of this pivotal moment in South Africa’s history.