The African Transformation Movement (ATM) is demanding a total shutdown of all existing spaza shops amid the spate of food poisoning incidents that have claimed the lives of more than 23 schoolchildren nationwide.
ATM’s demands came in the wake of the National Disaster Management Centre declaring food contamination a national disaster under Section 23 of the Disaster Management Act.
The party argued that closing down spaza shops would mitigate widespread unregulated food supply chains linked to these establishments.
“The ATM asserts the urgent need for decisive action to protect the health and welfare of our communities.”
The party urged the government that spaza ownership should be exclusive to South Africans, with the belief that such methods would revitalise township economies.
“We urge the government to implement a robust programme aimed at revitalising the township economy, which must be firmly placed in the hands of township residents.
“Empowering local citizens to take ownership of their economic futures is paramount. We advocate for the establishment of spaza shops that are solely owned and operated by vetted South African citizens, ensuring that they possess legitimate supply and distribution networks to guarantee food safety and quality for our communities,” said the ATM.
The ATM’s urgent calls shortly come after President Cyril Ramaphosa gave a 21-day deadline for owners to register their spaza shops in local municipalities.
Following social media reports about South African landlords registering spaza shops on behalf of foreign owners, the party firmly believes that registration should be exclusive to citizens.
“We contend that allowing foreign nationals to register spaza shops will not resolve the ongoing issues with fake and expired food products. Instead, it exacerbates the problem and undermines the economic stability of our communities,” said the ATM.
ATM has also demanded that the police be held accountable, alleging they are aiding illegal foreigners in forging documents.
“Those found guilty of these offences should face arrest and prosecution,” said the party.
It added that law enforcement should take a strong stance and tighten security against attempts to register spaza shops owned by foreign nationals.
“Such actions are not only unethical, but also constitute betrayal of the trust placed in them by the citizens they are sworn to protect. We call for these individuals to be charged with treason, prosecution, and sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole,” said the ATM.
The Star