Central SA
#MangaungShutdown hinders launch of phase 2 vaccine drive─── 08:00 Tue, 18 May 2021
The planned roll-out of the second phase of the vaccination drive in the Free State was hindered by the Mangaung Shutdown protests in Bloemfontein as it could only be launched in Qwaqwa and not in Mangaung.
Free State Premier Sisi Ntombela and Free State MEC Montseng Tsiu visited the Thekolohelong Welfare Center in Phuthaditjhaba, Qwaqwa, on Monday 17 May to officially launch phase 2, which is targeting elderly people, specifically 60 years and older. Tsiu said it is unfortunate that this could not be launched in Bloemfontein, the other intended point, where roads were barricaded with burning tyres and rocks.
In a media statement, Ntombela has called for calm and also raised concerns of large gatherings of protesters as the province is battling with its third wave of Covid-19. "The protests are also taking place as the province is launching phase 2 of the Covid-19 vaccination programme, targeting persons 60 years of age and older, and the disruptions will no doubt have negative effects on the programme," said Ntombela.
Schools and businesses have been closed in Mangaung due to expected protests in the streets.
OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi
