Not yet axed or stripped of her powers for corruption and embezzlement, bullet-proof Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma has gazetted South Africa’s adjusted level 4 lockdown restrictions, which will remain in place until 11 July and are giving effect to president Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement on Sunday evening (27 June).
Places closed to the public
All gatherings are prohibited except at funerals, the workplace or when buying goods or services. Not mentioned directly by Ramaphosa during his address, the gazette states that several businesses and premises that would normally be open to the public will now be required to close in terms of the new prohibition on gatherings. The following must close to the public:
- Gyms and fitnesses centres;
- Casinos;
- Taverns, shebeens and bars;
- Restaurants – except for off-site consumption;
- Theatres and cinemas;
- Museums;
- Conference facilities;
- Older persons residential facilities.
Persons rendering security or maintenance at these facilities may continue to do so.
Movement of persons
All people are confined to their home from 21h00 – 04h00, except in the case of emergencies or if they are essential workers. The closing time for all businesses permitted to remain open is 20h00; Leisure travel in and out of Gauteng province is prohibited, except in the case of businesses, emergencies, attending a funeral, moving residences or one of the other permitted reasons. People who are currently outside the province and reside there may return home.
Gatherings
All gatherings are prohibited, including religious and social gatherings. Funerals are permitted, but attendance is limited to 50 people. Stores and grocers and supermarkets – and all businesses that are allowed to remain open – have to limit the number of people inside to 50% of floor space. This includes customers and employees. Sporting events and matches may continue, but no spectators are allowed.
Schools
All schools will be closed for contact classes from 30 June, however early childhood development centres may remain open. Basic education minister Angie Motshekga is expected to provide her own update shortly.
Alcohol & Cigarettes
The sale and dispensing of alcohol are strictly prohibited. This includes the transportation of alcohol, except where required for the production of hand sanitisers or cleaning products. No special dispensation for liquor licences will be given over this 14 day period. Transportation of liquor for export purposes is permitted. The sale and consumption of cigarettes, tobacco and vaping liquids remains allowed.
Public Transport
Public transport facilities may continue to operate subject to further regulations introduced by transport minister Fikile Mbalula. Bus, taxi and e-hailing services may not carry more than 70% capacity for long-distance travel (a trip of 200km or more) but may carry 100% capacity for shorter trips. All passengers are required to wear masks covering mouth and nose.
Incitement to Commit Offences
A new clause in the regulations now states that any person who incites, instigates, commands, or procures any other person to commit any offence in terms of these regulations is committing an offence and faces a possible fine or conviction not exceeding six months.
Land Borders
There are no changes to borders. The 20 land borders that were open before will remain open. The 33 land borders that were closed before remain closed.