Legal expert explains President Cyril Ramaphosa’s address

President Cyril Ramaphosa’s address comes amid concerns over the surge in Covid-19 infections and deaths over the past two weeks. 

The Department of Health announced on Saturday, 11 July, that the country had recorded 264,184 confirmed cases of Covid-19, a figure which puts South Africa in the global top 10 of infections. 

Ramaphosa has made important announcements such as South Africa will remain at Level 3, with the national state of disaster being extended to 15 August.

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All institutions are now legally bound to enforce the wearing of masks. However, Martin Bester spoke to Ulrich Roux, attorney at Ulrich Roux & Associates. Roux emphasises that the President said it is mandatory to wear a mask, however, it is not illegal as many still wear buffs, visors, and other protective gear. All institutions are now legally bound to enforce the wearing of masks, though.

South Africans were shocked to hear the sale of alcohol has been suspended with immediate effect.

Roux confirmed that the sale of alcohol has been suspended with immediate effect. The gazette circulated on Sunday as announced by the President is dated 12 July 2020. “No one was aware, and the alcohol industry was not consulted,” Roux added.

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The visiting of family and friends remains prohibited. Taxis can still operate at 100% capacity, except for long-distance travel, at which it must be 70%. 

Listen to the full conversation here: