Warning against election posters vandalism

In the lead-up to the 2024 National and Provincial Elections in South Africa, the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) has issued a stern warning against the vandalism, defacing, and removal of political party posters.

Deputy National Commissioner of the South African Police Service, Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, emphasised during a media briefing in Pretoria the consequences awaiting those caught tampering with campaign materials.

“Anyone found to be tampering with these posters or vandalising them will be arrested,” she said.

NATJOINTS affirms Constitutional rights amidst upcoming elections

The NATJOINTS, comprising the South African Police Service (SAPS), the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), and the State Security Agency (SSA), stressed the importance of upholding citizens’ rights to make political choices, as enshrined in the Constitution.

As the election date of 29 May, draws near, South Africans are gearing up for their seventh democratic exercise since the end of apartheid.

However, amidst the preparations, the spread of fake news has emerged as a significant concern for law enforcement agencies. Lieutenant General Mosikili condemned the dissemination of unverified information, emphasising the potential for panic, confusion, and even violence that it could incite.

To combat this threat, the public is urged to fact-check information before sharing it on social media platforms.

Moreover, with an observed increase in service delivery-related protests, the NATJOINTS has prioritised enhancing police visibility in potentially volatile areas. The deployment of the public order policing unit aims to address large crowds and mitigate unrest.

Mosikili urges political leaders to exercise responsibility in public communication

Lieutenant General Mosikili called upon political leaders to exercise responsibility in their election communication on public platforms, recognising the influence they wield in shaping public opinion.

Central to the law enforcement approach is adherence to constitutional principles and the rule of law. Every law enforcement officer is reminded of their duty to execute their mandate professionally, impartially, and with integrity.

“Every law enforcement officer has a responsibility and an obligation to execute their mandate, professionally, impartially and with integrity, and to do so within the confines of the laws of the country,” the Deputy National Commissioner said.