The EFF in Limpopo will continue with its picket outside the high court in Polokwane on Friday in opposition to new alcohol legislation in the province.
This after the party filed a motion to take part in court proceedings in support of the Sekhukhune Liquor Traders Association.
The association has gone to court with an intention to interdict the new law, which limits the sale of alcohol to 12 midnight.
Limpopo EFF chairperson Maraga Tshilidzi said the midnight curfew will only drag the Limpopo economy through the mud, as it has already affected many jobs in just two weeks since its introduction.
“The act, which prohibits the sale of alcohol after midnight, will not only destroy livelihoods for those who work at liquor establishments, but it will contribute significantly to rising levels of unemployment and poverty,” said Tshilidzi.
“The advantages of selling liquor 24 hours include increased revenue for businesses, enhanced convenience for customers, and potential job opportunities.”
She said the red berets are fully behind the artists, owners and everyone who has been affected by the midnight alcohol curfew.
“Liquor trade should not be reduced to midnight because it seems to be a human right violation, it deprives performing artists and DJs the ability to survive.”
During its picket on Friday, the EFF will be joined by members of the Limpopo Artists Movement, which is led by Mphoza Mashabela.
“People are trying to recover from the damage caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the entertainment industry is still crawling but instead of supporting us, the government is dragging us down,” said Mashabela.
Sello Mokwana, deputy chairperson of the Sekhukhune Liquor Traders Association, said the association wants the liquor legislation suspended with immediate effect.
“The last 17 days have been hectic for us as an association and business owners who are frustrated that they have to limit the number of families they feed,” said Mokwana.
“The economic development department should ensure the growth of businesses, from huge to small businesses, but they are the ones crushing the businesses that depend on the sale of liquor.”
He added that the association is hoping for a positive court outcome.
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