… Businesses share the same sentiment
DELISA THWALA
MANZINI– Local businesses, vendors and transport owners have come out to say, the so-called demonstration and threats about ‘shutdowns’ disrupt their business operations.
These groups were speaking earlier today during random interviews where they mentioned that it was hard for them to confidently wake up for work if there are threats to disrupt peace and operations.
Businesses ranging from national chain stores to neighborhood pizza shops that were damaged in the wake of the June unrest and COVID-19 were still assessing their losses.
A vendor in Manzini who has been in business for over four years said even though not marred by violence or any demonstration, they were still nervous and felt at risk.
“Even though we reported to our markets today, the threat and fear are still there. I wish these organisations found a way to do their demonstration without violence or taking our bread,” she said.
Meanwhile, Navid Muhammed said even though they were operating, they were still wary of what might happen.
“They need to stop making us scared. We are breadwinners and we just want to operate without threats of being burnt or shut down,” he said.
Another businessman said the proposed protests, and shutdowns have only added to retailers’ mounting list of challenges as some stores have been damaged and looted or had to close early because of fear in the past.
“Retailers and restaurants shuttered by the coronavirus pandemic had just started to reopen their businesses. Employees’ stores worked to restock shelves and resume more typical store hours, but now there is always this looming fear of shut downs,” said the business man.
But in recent days, nationwide protests prompted by the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, have led to shattered storefronts and looting and forced many doors back shut.
Worth noting is that the Government, yesterday, appreciated public transport and all other stakeholders who made their stance known on the matter and have openly announced that there will be no public transport disruption today.
Through the Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Themba Nhlanganiso Masuku, they said this was commendable coming from the public transport sector. “This shows that they understand that public transport is a critical service and that they are charged with ensuring that emaSwati are able to travel seamlessly to any given point. Siyabonga bekunene, awuchubeke lomoya,” he said.
