The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) notes the announcements made by President Ramaphosa, regarding the outbreak of the new Covid-19 Omicron variant. 

The IFP would like to commend the President and the National Coronavirus Command Council (NCCC) for the pragmatic approach that they have adopted, and the decision to remain on Alert Level 1. We believe that it is wise not to rush into any decisions. This, particularly as additional restrictions could prove detrimental to South Africa’s economy, which has only recently started to display green shoots. 

The diplomatic engagements regarding South Africa being placed on travel Red Lists must be prioritised, to minimise the negative impact on tourism. 

The IFP would further like to applaud the excellent work being done by South African scientists in the monitoring and identification of this new variant. Our scientific and healthcare professionals continue to be the first line of defence against the coronavirus, and for this, we will remain forever indebted to them. 

As the IFP, we have always maintained that the health and safety of South Africans is our number one priority. We therefore agree that monitoring the impact of the new Covid-19 variant in the coming weeks will be essential in determining the next steps, as relates to precautionary measures. 

In response to President Ramaphosa’s vaccination appeal, the IFP NEC will be meeting on Friday, 3 December, to consider the vaccine mandate. 

In the interim, we call on all South Africans to continue to follow Covid-19 safety regulations, which are now a familiar feature of daily life. Please continue to wear a mask, sanitise, and maintain social distancing, as part of our joint efforts in combatting the virus.

Issued by IFP