Pretoria - The security agencies are confident and remain ready to ensure that people are able to cast their votes in peaceful environments, says State Security Minister David Mahlobo.
“We are ready to make this election safe and secure. All forces are on the ground throughout the country and the NATJOINTS will be keeping a close eye on the high risk areas,” said Minister Mahlobo, who will cast his special vote this morning in Bergland Primary School, Nelspruit.
About 100 000 officers will be on election duty. Over 50 000 police officers will be on duty at voting stations across the country, while the rest will be mobile so that they can respond to situations if the need arises.
President Zuma has authorised the employment of more than 2 000 members of the SANDF to assist the police to maintain law and order in the run up to and during the elections, in all nine provinces.
They will be on duty until the 10th of August.
Special focus will be in the 650 hotspots like Vuwani were protesting communities have previously disrupted registrations and made the work of the IEC difficult.
Minister Mahlobo urged all South Africans to exercise their democratic right and responsibility to make their mark.
He said participating in the 2016 Municipal Elections strengthens the country’s democracy, ensures accountability and contributes to responsive governance in municipalities.
“Your vote mandates the ward councillor and political party you choose to implement the commitments they have made for your local municipality.
“We urge you to go to the polls on Wednesday and help the country to build a strong local government system that delivers services to the people,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
