The call for the shutdown was fuelled by the extension of the National Covid-19 Disaster Management Act and issues such as the high unemployment rate. 

The Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) and South African Civic Organisation (Sanco) in the Free State have distanced themselves from Monday's planned march. Cosatu's provincial secretary, Menyatso Mahlatsi, tells OFM News that the trade union is not aware of the march and they will not be supporting it in any way. 

Sanco's provincial secretary, Ramosie Bakoena, has also shrugged off any ideas of joining the march and says the civic organisation is not supporting it. But, things could turn out different on Tuesday 24 August 2021 for Bloemfontein, when the Mangaung Shutdown Movement plans to take to streets in protest over the lack of service delivery.

However, the call for the national shutdown has been met by a fierce response from the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NatJOINTS).

The Major-General at South African Police Services, Mathapelo Peters, says measures have been put place to ensure the safety and security of South Africans amidst threats of a "National Shutdown" on Monday.

"The NatJOINTS is aware of inflammatory messages on various social media platforms advocating for violence. Those behind these messages are warned that inciting violence is a criminal offence. Members of the public are cautioned against spreading such divisive messages," she adds.

OFM News