Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia says the State of the Nation Address (SONA) is an important event in the country’s calendar, a day on which the eyes of the country and many beyond the borders turn to Parliament to hear the President outline the nation’s priorities and the path forward.
“The State of the Nation Address demands the highest level of preparedness and professionalism,” Cachalia said.
This as President Cyril Ramaphosa will this evening deliver the State of the Nation Address at the Cape Town City Hall at 7pm.
The Acting Minister was speaking at the Operational Readiness for SONA Parade in Cape Town on Thursday, where he was addressing members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other law enforcement agencies deployed to ensure safety during the State of the Nation Address.
With just hours to go to the address being delivered, Cachalia said SONA is a major national event, involving government leaders, dignitaries, the media, and thousands of South Africans who look to us for assurance that their safety is guaranteed.
“Your deployment today is not a routine assignment; it is an important opportunity for you to demonstrate the very valuable service you provide to the people who reside in the Republic of South Africa.
“We therefore gather here to recognise and appreciate you, the men and women entrusted with ensuring that the event proceeds safely, smoothly and with the dignity it deserves,” Cachalia said.
He told officers that their presence underscores the crucial role that law enforcement plays in protecting democracy.
“I want to emphasise to each one of you, your visibility matters. Your conduct matters. Your professionalism matters.
“Our citizens must see in you professionals who role-model discipline, respect, restraint and confidence. Their trust in law enforcement is reinforced not only by the work you do, but by the manner in which you do it.
“As you carry out your duties today, I call on you to remain vigilant, alert to any risks or potential disruptions. I call on you to be professional, upholding the high standards expected of every officer in uniform. I call on you to be respectful, treating every member of the public with dignity and fairness, regardless of the circumstances. And above all, I call on you to be lawful, remembering that you serve the promise of the Constitution and the people of South Africa.”
The Minister also told the law enforcement officers that their conduct reflects not only on the SAPS and the broader law enforcement community; it reflects on the entire government and on the nation.
“Let us show the country what excellence in law enforcement looks like. I have no doubt that you can do it. I also want to remind you to look after one another.
The Minister concluded by thanking all the police officers deployed to ensure safety during SONA.
“As your Minister of Police, I thank each of you for stepping up to serve our country, your dedication, and your commitment to upholding safety and security.
“Your contribution as police officials makes a vast difference that will shape the type of country we will become. I wish you strength, clarity, and confidence as you head into your deployment.
“Carry out your responsibilities with honour. Carry them out with pride and carry them out knowing that all of us appreciate the sacrifices you make,” he said.
Meanwhile, the acting Minister has embarked on a series of engagements with a broad range of stakeholders to discuss policing challenges in the Western Cape and strengthen measures to improve safety in communities across the province.
READ | Minister meets various stakeholders to improve safety in WC communities
“These engagements form part of the Minister’s programme ahead of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) later this evening,” the police said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za
