South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday said the country would remain on alert level 1 lockdown as a precaution considering the possibility of a third wave of coronavirus in the coming days, reported CGTN Africa.
Ramaphosa addressed the nation on Tuesday as the country reported 548 new COVID-19 cases and 49 deaths on Monday. The statement comes as the government anticipates an increase in virus cases due to movements and gatherings during the long weekend ahead.
The South African president’s address came after he attended meetings with the national coronavirus command council, his coordinating council, and Cabinet.
Ramaphosa said the sale of alcohol on-site at restaurants, shebeens, and bars will be allowed in line with licensing, time limitations up to 23:00 in the evening, and COVID-19 protocols including mandatory wearing of masks.
He said the sale of alcohol for off-site consumption will however be prohibited this coming Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, due to the Easter holidays.
“Given the role of alcohol in fuelling reckless behavior, we will put in place some restrictions over the Easter weekend,” Ramaphosa said adding,” To this end, the sale of alcohol for off-site consumption will be prohibited this coming Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday.”
The South African president said interprovincial travel will still be permitted during the period of the adjustments. Public recreational spaces such as beaches, parks, and dams will also remain open. However, he urged the people of the country to limit travel as much as possible and to exercise caution and be responsible.
Notably, religious gatherings over the Easter period will be restricted to a total number of 250 people indoors and 500 outdoors. The restrictions on the size of gatherings will be reviewed in the next 15 days based on an assessment of the state of the pandemic and the extent of compliance with health protocols.
