The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (Popcru) has made a call that the new coalition government members should consult with it before appointing leaders in key ministries influencing the criminal justice cluster.
Popcru president Thulani Ngwenya stated that the union’s concerns were based on the difficult challenges and high crime rates facing law enforcement.
“The cluster urgently needs experienced government leaders. [The calibre of leaders] who understand the criminal justice environment and systems. We need leaders with whom we can engage and partner, and who understand the issues at play. So that we can drive progress and strengthen the fight against crime.
Time to move forward
“It is time for South Africa to step forward, not backward, which requires calm, focused, and true leadership. People are sick and tired of the current state of affairs. This as demonstrated by the recent election’s poor voter turnout. As the voice of the public servants who operate in this space, Popcru is demanding that government consults with us. [It must do so] before, and not after appointing their new ministers. So that we can share our guidance on how we envisage the future of their departments,” said Ngwenya.
The union raised these concerns after the announcement that the minister of police Bheki Cele was not returning to parliament.
Ngwenya acknowledged Cele’s understanding of operations and policing direction. But he expressed the need for a successor who could build on and strengthen his work.
Popcru is also advocating for the reappointment of Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Ronald Lamola.
“By working closely with Minister Lamola, we have made great strides in self-sustainability programmes at prisons over the past few years. Today, inmates are gaining skills in areas ranging from brick manufacturing and furniture-making. Also in agriculture, while producing goods for the benefit of correctional facilities and the state. This has reduced the cost [to] prisons, while empowering inmates. It’s also reducing violence, and supporting prisoner rehabilitation,” he said.
Comprehensive transition of duties
Popcru has called for a comprehensive transition of duties and issues between outgoing and incoming ministers. This to prevent any loss of progress.
“We don’t want to keep starting afresh with new ministers. As a union, we want to continue advancing our work for the benefit of all South Africans. This means that outgoing officials must ensure that there is a proper handover. They must remember that they may be leaving their office, but the work of their office remains.”
