Government has a duty to protect its citizens

On Monday, President Mokgweetsi Masisi imposed yet another indefinite alcohol sale suspension as a response to the rapid rise in COVID-19 cases in the country. Government said the unpopular decision was taken based on evidence that consumption of alcohol increases the risks posed by COVID-19 due to its negative effects on adherence to set protocols.

The decision to close the ‘booze gates’ has not been well received by many, especially the consumers and traders. It means that the alcohol industry will yet again endure more financial losses as it was the case previously.

Painful as it is, it has emerged that as a nation, we are failing to strike a balance between the benefits of alcohol while minimising its dangers. To be fair, we are to blame for this current ban because of our conduct and lack of self-control.

Government has a duty to protect its citizens, and while this decision will deprive those moderate drinkers and cripple the industry, the government could not allow irresponsible imbibers to put all of us at risk.

Looking at the recent images and reports, it was proving difficult for authorities to deal with those who don’t comply with the regulations. The situation was now getting out of hand as consumers ignored protocols and gathered in large numbers at drinking holes and or at ‘secret locations’.

The positive COVID-19 cases and number of recorded deaths are also going up everyday. This is a sign that something is not right. It called for serious tightening of screws to protect the lives of the people.

As things stand, the suspension means that the consumers are punishing the traders. Although the link between this current surge in cases has not been scientifically justified, it is necessary for us, the people, to introspect. We should look at the way we behave so that when the ban is lifted, it will never return again.

However, while it is necessary for the government to do whatever it takes to combat the spread of COVID-19, it is also shocking that other potential super-spreaders such as schools remain open.

Government should also look at developing home grown solutions. Suspending the sale of alcohol will never be a long-term solution to combating the spread of COVID-19. In fact, its effects may be felt for a long term as the alcohol industry may struggle to recover post COVID-19. We believe that there are less extreme measures to impose other than banning alcohol sales.