The Gauteng Portfolio Committee on Community Safety has expressed confidence in the ability of the province’s law enforcement agencies to effectively manage any threats to the election process. This as there has been concerns around safety around the most contested elections since the first democratic elections of 1994.
The committee has approved the safety and security plans. These are designed to ensure a safe and secure environment during the elections, scheduled for 29 May 2024.
The plans were presented by the provincial department of community safety and the provincial police commissioner.
Crime rate in province was a concern
Gauteng is South Africa’s largest voting province out of the country’s nine provinces. Committee chairperson Bandile Masuku said the crime rate in the province raised concerns. The committee expressed concerns about the impact this might have on the upcoming elections.
To address these concerns, Masuku said the department of community safety and the provincial police commissioner came together. They both outlined their comprehensive strategies to ensure the safety of voters and the smooth operation of the election process.
Masuku said the department of community safety shared its approach to managing traffic, ensuring road safety. Also facilitating the free flow of traffic, escorting ballot papers, increasing police visibility, and preventing crime.
Gauteng Police Commissioner Tommy Mthombeni also detailed the South African Police Service (SAPS) plan. In collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, the SAPS plans to maintain public order during the election period. This will be done through crime prevention, combatting and investigation, and other security measures.
Secure environment for voters
“The goal is to create a secure environment where voters can exercise their constitutional right to vote without fear or intimidation. The committee expressed confidence in the ability of the law enforcement agencies in Gauteng. It is … satisfied at their ability to effectively manage any threats to the election process,” Masuku said.
The committee also issued a warning to anyone who might consider disrupting the elections.
“Law enforcement will be on high alert. Any criminal activities related to election disruptions will be dealt with firmly and legally,” Masuku said.
The committee encouraged all registered voters in Gauteng to turn out in large numbers. They are urged to exercise the hard-earned constitutional right to vote for the political party of their choice.
- SAnews.gov.za
