Level 2 is almost here – but when will Ramaphosa address the nation?

It’s the news we’ve been waiting for: After a tricky winter season that saw a Delta-fuelled resurgence of COVID-19 rip through South Africa, there is light at the end of the tunnel – and a shift to Level 2 of lockdown is now imminent. But how long will Cyril Ramaphosa leave it before he drops his next televised address?

Level 2 loading: Lockdown phase likely to change ‘this week’

Earlier on Tuesday, Cabinet confirmed that the National Coronavirus Command Council (NCCC) is now discussing the current provisions for Level 3 restrictions, and whether they need to be amended. Virus infection rates have declined substantially across most of the country, and the worst of the third wave seems to be over.

Ramaphosa to address the nation soon after coronavirus command council meeting

— Mxolisi Mkhize (@ProKhabza) September 7, 2021

Vaccines ‘accelerate path’ to Level 2

Furthermore, Ramaphosa has another terrific weapon in his arsenal: The success of the vaccines. South Africa has hit a very important milestone this week, with over 25% of people now fully immunised from COVID-19. This allows the president greater freedom to relax a number of restrictions – but there will still be SOME caution required.

A move to Level 1 may be a bridge too far at this point, and Level 2 looks more like a dead cert at this point. So, over to you Mr. President – we need to know when you’re gathering us for the next family meeting.

When will Cyril Ramaphosa address the nation again?

The Cabinet used loose terms in their briefing, saying that ‘the coming days’ and ‘the next few days’ would see Ramaphosa address the nation. Cyril still has to meet with several other Parliamentary groups before he announces anything, meaning that Thursday 9 September or Friday 10 September are two of the most plausible dates.

We all know he loves a bit of ‘Sunday Service’, so the wait could extend into the weekend. But whatever decisions are made, our head of state will be under pressure to act sooner rather than later…

“The meetings reflected on the rate of infections and vaccinations, and assessed the Covid-19 prevention measures in force under the Adjusted Level 3 of the national state of disaster. The NCCC agreed that government will in the coming days hold consultations with political parties and the religious sector on the observance of safety measures.”

Cabinet statement