Protesters Urged to Avoid Vandalism and Disorder during National Shutdown
Pretoria – As the much-anticipated “National Shutdown” protest approaches, the South African government has issued warnings against road blockages, vandalism, property destruction, and hindering the free movement of individuals.
With social media buzzing with announcements regarding the national shutdown, South Africans are preparing for uncertainty.
In an effort to ease concerns, the government has assured that law enforcement will be deployed extensively to maintain order.
“The government acknowledges the call for a national shutdown on Monday, (9 December 2024), which has been circulating on various social media platforms,” stated a communication from the Presidency shared on X.
“These calls for a national shutdown seek to instill fear among hardworking, law-abiding South Africans.
“The government will not accept any acts of violence and intimidation that jeopardize our efforts to maintain the country’s stability.
“Any attempts to infringe upon citizens’ rights and free movement on Monday, (9 December 2024), or to obstruct access, vandalize, or damage property will be met with severe legal consequences.”

According to the statement, government services and businesses will operate as usual.
The government has urged public servants to act in accordance with the Constitution, the Code of Conduct, and the Public Service Charter to ensure the provision of public services.
Various social media posts are advocating for a national shutdown protest aimed at demanding President Cyril Ramaphosa’s resignation.
In a media briefing last week, African National Congress (ANC) Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula stated that those advocating for a national shutdown to call for President Cyril Ramaphosa’s ouster are misinterpreting his announcement regarding visas for Nigerians traveling to South Africa.
Many posts on X alleged that President Ramaphosa was granting access to Nigerians, whom they accused of being involved in “illicit drug activities” in the country.
However, the Presidency has clarified the visa situation, indicating a misunderstanding that arose from President Cyril Ramaphosa’s initial comments at the SA-Nigeria Bi-National Commission on 3 December 2024.
“As part of the ongoing efforts to modernize and streamline visa application processes globally, South African missions in Nigeria have enhanced the effectiveness and convenience of the visa application process,” the Presidency elaborated in a statement on Wednesday, (4 December 2024).
“This is part of the visa reforms implemented by the South African government to stimulate economic activities and promote tourism while safeguarding our national security.”
Nigeria is South Africa’s principal trading partner in West Africa.
The Presidency assured all stakeholders that the modernization of the visa application system would not compromise the integrity of the visa framework.
“Prospective travelers may submit their visa applications without needing to provide their passports at the application stage—only certified copies of the bio page of their passports are required, with the actual passports to be presented during the application process for verification,” stated the Presidency.
“Once a visa is granted, applicants must submit their passports to finalize the process and have the visa affixed to their passport.
“These updates have enhanced the overall customer experience while maintaining the security and integrity of the visa application system.”
In conclusion, Mbalula – the ANC Secretary General – remarked on the potential protest, stating: “This so-called national shutdown is merely a failed attempt to create disorder.
“These opportunists have no strategy for building South Africa; their intentions are solely destructive.
“To our citizens, we advise rejecting these distractions and staying focused on rebuilding our communities and creating opportunities for everyone.”
https://x.com/MbalulaFikile/status/1865015361713651915
https://x.com/Bhelekazi_13/status/1865245627988201536
https://x.com/Thabiso97829894/status/1865372187512770726
https://twitter.com/mavundlatebza/status/1865046380378525701