Ramaphosa vows to explain lockdown regulations rationale
President Cyril Ramaphosa says he is aware of the widespread confusion caused by the back and forth on the ban on tobacco products during the national lockdown.
This comes after the contentious decision to ban the sale of cigarettes under levels 4 and 3, despite Ramaphosa’s previous decision to lift the ban.
On Sunday, Ramaphosa met with the South African National Editors Forum (Sanef), where he was quizzed by journalists on how government had arrived at various decisions during the lockdown.
Ramaphosa admitted there might have been some discrepancies in how the regulations were announced.
“And of course, because we are dealing with so many people and so many officials right across the country, we would have been and there are some whose enthusiasm actually goes ahead of them.”
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Ramaphosa also vowed to detail the rationale used to determine lockdown regulations, amid the continuing criticism.
“People have sought to know why were certain regulations put in place and people are correct to ask that.
“Over the next coming while we will need to explain and to put in place the rationale why certain decisions were taken.”
As the country’s restrictions are eased, Ramaphosa added it would also be up to citizens to join in on government’s efforts.
“At the same time these measures have resulted in massive disruption in people’s lives and have put livelihoods at risk.
“And some o ft regulations have not made everyone in our country happy.”
He added: “I’m convinced we will overcome the pandemic.”