ABSA won't close the account

On 29 June, I walked into ABSA and learnt that my card had expired and my account semi-dormant. To get it right would two days. A few minutes ago, I went back to close the account so as to access funds for a desperate need. Lo and behold, even when closing the account, they tell me there two days from 29 June ends on 2 July. They are refusing to close the account and let me go. I am not applying for a loan, I am truly frustrated and stranded.