In a recent parliamentary session, Deputy President Paul Mashatile addressed concerns about the high crime rate in South Africa.
As the leader of government business in the National Assembly and chairperson of the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cabinet Committee, Mashatile assured the public that the South African Police Service (SAPS) has a comprehensive plan to combat crime.
During the session, EFF deputy president Floyd Shivambu questioned Mashatile about his engagements with Police Minister Bheki Cele regarding the country’s crime rate and the perceived incapacity of the police force to deal with it. In response, Mashatile highlighted the SAPS’ efforts to address the issue.
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Mashatile revealed that the SAPS has implemented Operation Shanela, a comprehensive plan aimed at combating crime throughout the country. This plan includes various strategies such as clamping down on illegal mining, tackling serious crimes, and addressing gender-based violence.
One of the key initiatives of Operation Shanela is the continuous training of SAPS members. Mashatile mentioned that 1,000 newly recruited personnel have been allocated to increase the capacity of public order policing.
Additionally, the recruitment drive has resulted in an additional 4,000 members joining the force by the end of October.
The SAPS has also established specialized units to collaborate with businesses, private security firms, and state-owned enterprises in combating illegal mining, the construction mafia, cable theft, vandalism of economic infrastructure, and gender-based violence.
Mashatile’s statement provides hope for South Africans who have been affected by the country’s high crime rate. The comprehensive plan outlined by the SAPS demonstrates a commitment to addressing the various forms of criminal activities that plague the nation.
More questions were regarding the ANC manifesto of free education and the #FeesMustFall protest. Most students in higher education are supported by Nsfas, with up to 80% of students supported in some institutions.
Mashatile stated that with the increase in the household income threshold from R120,000 to R350,000, students, particularly those from underprivileged homes, would continue to get financial assistance.
The deputy president also encouraged young people to pursue higher education at TVET colleges, as the qualifications they provide provide job chances.
PM Munzoor Shaik Emam stated that 60% of students drop out of TVET colleges in their first year, with another 30% passing but failing mathematics. He also said these colleges did not meet the country’s skill requirements.
“The problem is… [TVETs’] curriculum is based on the availability of lecturers.”
Responding to the question, the Deputy President advised that children should be invested in the early childhood development stage.
“I agree that in recent years we have experienced quite a high number of children dropping out of school, so it is important we prepare them as best as possible,” Mashatile said.
