With just 30 days remaining before South Africa heads to the polls in May to commemorate 30 years of democracy, preparations are underway to ensure a smooth and safe democratic process.
The Justice, Crime Prevention, and Security (JCPS) Cluster briefed the media on the state of readiness on Sunday, unveiling what they term a “fit for purpose” strategy.
Leading the cluster, defence minister Thandi Modise emphasised the significance of safety and security, especially in light of what is anticipated to be the most hotly contested elections in the country’s history.
“Overall, 70 political parties are contesting these elections, 11 independent candidates, and the national contestants are 52. In total, there are over 14,903 candidates vying for 887 seats in the national and provincial legislatures. Ensuring the safety and security of all voters and officials is of paramount importance,” Modise stated.
The strategy, developed in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, includes a deployment plan to counter potential threats of crime and violence at voting stations and results centers.
NatJOINTS, the national security planning body, conducted a thorough threat and crime pattern analysis to inform these measures, leaving no room for “chance,” said Modise.
“Based on the threat and crime pattern analysis, NATJOINTS has recommended a fit-for-purpose deployment plan that will deal with any potential threats of crime and violence in and around voting stations and national and provincial results centres.
“We have also put measures in place to protect all public facilities that will be used for voting, national key points, and other essential infrastructure that might be targeted by criminal elements,” Modise added.
“Our Constitution guarantees the right to freedom, the right to safety, and the right to be free from all forms of intimidation. In addition, the Criminal Matters Amendment Act of 2015 states that any person who tampers with or damages essential infrastructure is guilty of a criminal offence, and he or she can be sentenced to a maximum of 30 years if found guilty.”
Modise revealed that law enforcement, the SAPS Ministry, and SAPS management have conducted oversight roadshows across all provinces, meeting with station commanders and district commissioners to assess readiness.
She expressed her satisfaction with the readiness of provinces and districts to provide policing services before, during, and after the elections, emphasising that law enforcement will operate within the relevant legal frameworks.
She said that JCPS Cluster leadership will deploy Director-Generals in various provinces to assess the situation on the ground and report back to relevant JCPS structures for swift action if necessary, in addition to ongoing monitoring.
Minister Modise issued a stern warning against any form of violence, incitement, or destruction of infrastructure, reaffirming the government’s commitment to upholding constitutional rights, including freedom, security, and protection from violence.
“Political rights for citizens are guaranteed and should not be violated,” Minister Modise emphasised.
“Anyone found contravening critical provisions of the Constitution during this period will be met with the full authority of the state.”
