Mzwandile Manyi, leader of the MK party, has expressed serious concerns about the sale of expired products in spaza shops, particularly those owned by foreign nationals. Manyi claims these shops are using fraudulent stamps to make expired food appear safe for consumption.
“These spaza shops are part of a criminal syndicate,” Manyi alleged during a press briefing. “They repackage expired goods with trusted brand labels, deceiving customers into believing they are purchasing quality products.”
The issue with spaza shops owned by foreigners is worse than outdated products becos they have their own fake stamps to give “life” to expired foodstuff.
The issue is the fake & expired products packaged in reputable brands.
Just shut down the entire spaza shop criminal syndicate— Mzwanele Manyi (@MzwaneleManyi) October 20, 2024
Manyi warned that this practice puts millions of South Africans at risk, particularly in communities that rely on these shops for their daily groceries. He accused the owners of deliberately deceiving consumers for profit.
“People are being sold poison, and we cannot stand by while our communities are exploited,” Manyi added, calling on the government to close down spaza shops that he believes are operating illegally and endangering public health.
His comments have ignited a broader debate on how to address the issue of unregulated spaza shops. While some support Manyi’s call for stronger action, others argue that increased oversight and regulation would be more effective than shutting down businesses that provide affordable goods.
As investigations into the matter continue, Manyi remains resolute: “These criminal syndicates must be stopped before more lives are put at risk.”