Government shutdowns, not protests, harm businesses: traders' body warns

A representatives of traders' organisations have shifted blame for business losses from peaceful protest movements to government-imposed shutdowns of city operations. The assertion comes as the business community faces mounting pressure from repeated administrative decisions to restrict movement and commercial activity. According to the traders' body, distinguishing between the impact of lawful demonstrations and government-ordered closures is critical for policy discussions. Dipke, speaking on behalf of the traders' association, argued that peaceful protests themselves do not necessarily warrant complete economic halts. The statement underscores growing frustration among merchants over what they characterise as disproportionate government responses that extend beyond addressing security concerns. Business leaders have called for more targeted interventions that would allow commercial activities to continue during periods of public assembly, provided law and order is maintained. The traders' position suggests a need for dialogue between government authorities and the business community to develop protocols that balance civic freedoms with economic stability.