<\/p>\n
ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula has urged South Africans to reject the “so-called” national shutdown aimed at President Cyril Ramaphosa, saying his statement regarding the country’s new visa policy with Nigeria was intentionally misinterpreted.<\/p>\n
As per the Tuesday announcement by Ramaphosa, Nigerian travellers will just need to present a copy of their passports when asking for a visa. The original document will be provided later.<\/p>\n
This sparked social media outrage with others calling for Ramaphosa to resign because “he was selling the country”.<\/p>\n
Many complained about how Nigerians were flooding the country with the intention of destroying it.<\/p>\n
However, Mbalula clarified that there was a misunderstanding, explaining that he did not imply that Nigerians could travel to South Africa without a passport.<\/p>\n
He said the deal was to ease trade relations with the country.<\/p>\n
Mbalula briefed the media at Luthuli House in Johannesburg on Friday.<\/p>\n
“We dismiss the so-called national shutdown as nothing more than a failed attempt to sow chaos. The ANC remains resolute in defending South Africa\u2019s sovereignty, uplifting its people, and ensuring that our country is a home for all who respect its laws and contribute positively to its growth,” he said.<\/p>\n
He said Ramaphosa will be defended and continue to govern as the elected president.<\/p>\n
“We are here to lead and we will not falter in this responsibility. We will not betray values and principles. Ramaphosa is a product of the democratic process and leading the ANC.<\/p>\n
“The attack on Ramaphosa is the attack on our nation including the ANC,” he said.<\/p>\n
He further called on the government to be decisive on the matter.<\/p>\n
kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za<\/p>\n
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