JOHANNESBURG — Members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) have been deployed to voting stations across various provinces to ensure a peaceful and safe environment for eligible voters during the 2024 elections.
According to South African Government News Agency, Provincial Commissioners sent off the last contingents of police officers on Tuesday to increase the number of foot soldiers already on the ground. In the Eastern Cape, SAPS Sarah Baartman District Commissioner, Major General Zolani Xawuka, addressed members during a parade ahead of their deployment for election duties. “All members are operationally ready to apply fundamental policing principles, guided by the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa,” Xawuka said. He reminded officers to execute their mandate professionally, impartially, and with integrity.
In KwaZulu-Natal, Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi gave his orders during a parade before the deployment of members to various parts of the province. In the North West, police officers have been deployed to ensure peaceful elections at voting stations, while in the Free State, SAPS Mangaung District Teams are maintaining heightened visibility to ensure the safety and security of voting materials.
Free State Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane, cast her special vote and interacted with operational members posted at voting stations. In Limpopo, Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe and Provincial Electoral Officer Nkaro Mateta reassured citizens of their readiness to ensure free and peaceful elections.
National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola emphasized the importance of maintaining public order during a sending-off parade in Harrismith. “There can never be disorder because you must be there to maintain public order and prevent crime,” Masemola told the police. “Go and assist your colleagues, make sure the election goes smooth, and create a peaceful situation to ensure that people go to vote in a very peaceful and stable environment.”