GAUTENG Premier Panyaza Lesufi has issued a stern warning to traders that are selling booze in the townships.
On Tuesday, 15 August, the Gauteng Provincial Government and its partners signed a pledge to support to the Gauteng Liquor Board at Alra Park Community Hall in Nigel, Ekurhuleni.
The partnership will ensure that all liquor traders and retailers are equipped with the knowledge and resources to trade responsibly and adhere to liquor trading and licensing conditions as stipulated by the Gauteng Liquor Act and related laws.
Panyaza said: "There are things you don't do in the suburbs, but you do them in the townships.
"You must not treat the townships differently. If you have close at 2 pm in the suburbs, you have to close at 2 pm in the townships,"
He said they will not allow that to happen.
"Everyone must play according to the rules regardless of how big or small you are,"
He urged liquor traders to be whistleblowers on crime prevention.
"There are people that are hijacked, and their bank cards are taken to be swiped in your businesses.
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"You must be vigilant. There are people that are taking women in your places. We want you to be whistleblowers and report such incidents," said the premier.
He said they are going to work with liquor traders to protect the sector so that the sector is responsible.
He urged traders to inform the departments about those who operate without liquor licenses or and those who are not closing their businesses on time.
Gauteng MEC for Economic Development, Tasneem Motara said: "The Gauteng Liquor Pledge marks a turning point in our commitment in creating a safer and more responsible environment for our communities. By prioritising safety over profits and ensuring effective regulation, we are taking proactive steps towards positive change."
The pledge was welcomed by liquor traders from in and around Gauteng.
The Chairperson of the National Tourism and Hospitality Association from Mogale City, Ouma Diale, said they were happy with the pledge.
"The pledge that specifies the business hours will be the key because some people open before 10 am and close their businesses in the early hours of the new day," she said.
Liquor trader Khozi Khoza from Daveyton in Ekurhuleni said: "I'm happy our Premier Lesufi has explained the issues of liquor licenses.
"We as traders should comply and respect the operating hours and also be responsible towards our businesses,"
