Sony launches the WF-1000XM6 in South Africa with upgraded noise cancelling, better call clarity and premium sound. Pricing starts at R7,999.
#AlcoholHasFallen: South Africans react to renewed alcohol ban
Following the announcement from President Cyril Ramaphosa on Sunday night, South Africans have reacted to the renewed and immediate ban on alcohol with #AlcoholHasFallen.
On 12 July, the president announced amendments to South Africa’s coronavirus lockdown regulations. This included a ban on the sale and distribution of alcohol, a renewed curfew (9pm to 4am), and stricter mask regulations.
However, the amendments also now allow taxis and public transport to operate at full capacity for trips under 200km. Meanwhile, beaches and parks are no longer prohibited for residents.
As of 12 July, South Africa had a total of 276 242 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 4079 deaths. Gauteng, the new epicentre in South Africa, now has 98 431 confirmed cases.
The ban on alcohol received mixed reactions from users.
Some applauded the decision due to alcohol’s role in gender-based violence, domestic abuse, and emergency room visits.
Trauma cases due to alcohol-related incidents are seen as an additional burden on the strained healthcare system.
https://twitter.com/Sli22892494/status/1282524494909898752
https://twitter.com/Yung_W33ZY/status/1282489691841925121
However, others lamented the ban in light of the many restrictions and challenges already facing South Africans. This includes job losses and Eskom’s return to load shedding amid a severe cold front.
They are taking electricity, water, cigarettes, alcohol, Jobs, the billions even our R350😭😭😭ai just take me to my grave already! #AlcoholHasFallen pic.twitter.com/FRfdyYFA0l
— Msamu (@Nelly_Khuzway) July 13, 2020
Imagine Loadshedding o le sober. #AlcoholHasFallen pic.twitter.com/gPTDGrEjOV
— T S H E P O 🇿🇦 (@kengBothata) July 13, 2020
Meanwhile, others pointed to the perceived disconnect between strict laws on alcohol but fewer restrictions on public transport or other areas affecting the spread of the virus.
https://twitter.com/KCollenm1/status/1282530089943609344
https://twitter.com/sinekem/status/1282449908591726592
Some South Africans will likely return to brewing alcohol at home or buying illicit alcohol. In fact, some Twitter users vowed to.
Feature image: Thanh Serious on Unsplash
