Mixed reactions to reopening of bottle stores

Sakhile Mazibuko was among those who braved a lengthy queue that stretched into the parking area outside Pick n Pay Liquor in Douglasdale yesterday morning.

Mazibuko said the past two months had been “a really long drag”.

He had decided against stocking up before the lockdown because he, like many others, assumed alcohol sales would only be banned for three weeks.

“By the time they started extending it, we were already out,” he said. “We were just taking it day by day but it gets to you when there’s nowhere to go and nothing to do. So I’m glad it’s finally over. It’s a massive relief.”

Mazibuko was sceptical when he first heard the ban was being lifted.

“They tried to lift the ban on cigarette sales and then they ended up back-tracking, so that’s why I’m here today – I don’t want to be caught down the line if they decide to ban alcohol sales again,” he said.

Jabulani, who asked that his surname not be published, agreed.

He was yesterday hoping to pick up a 24-pack for a friend and “one or two strong ones” for himself.

“I’ll be drinking them slowly, though,” Jabulani said, “We are just concerned that government may change their decision around this.”

Jabulani said he did not usually drink alcohol.

“It’s just that now it gets a bit boring,” he said.

Jabulani was happy the ban had been lifted.

“I think the government’s stance on alcohol was putting people’s livelihoods in jeopardy. It’s a big business, employing many people. And people need alcohol, although there are different views around it,” he said.

“I just hope and trust people will drink responsibly and not start misbehaving”.

In Randburg, Moketsi Makudu said he did not see the need to stock up on alcohol because he was not used to drinking. “But I need to have something when I do want to just quench my thirst.”

In the same queue, Melrick Masondo said he was not stocking up.

“I miss a beer, that’s why I am buying some. It is rather surprising that the queue is not as long as expected,” Masondo said.

Some consumers chose not to be part of the rush to purchasing alcohol.

We all enjoy a drink but won’t die without one,” said Crystal Neels.