Katlego Sekhu

The Presidency said on Sunday that South Africans should treat Monday as a normal working day, despite widespread calls that President Cyril Ramaphosa declare it a public holiday. 959 Breakfast invited Legal Researcher at Judge Matters, Mbekezeli Benjamin, to speak about what it takes for a President to declare a public holiday.
According to Benjamin, the president can declare a public holiday through a proclamation, which necessitates careful consideration of the broader implications of such a decision.
“Employers and employees need to be considered in that decision-making. The process does not specify specific dates but emphasizes the importance of providing sufficient notice to allow for necessary arrangements, such as addressing potential pay-related concerns.”
Benjamin notes that, typically, the proclamation is a “concise one- or two-page document that the president signs.” Its effectiveness is contingent upon its publication through the Gazzete and the president’s proclamation.
Benjamin also touched on the reasons for the different approaches taken during the lockdown period.
Listen to the full discussion on 959 Breakfast.
Read Next: The Springboks trophy tour details announced
We value your feedback:
[vfb id=97]



