Security Cluster Declares Readiness for Potential Instability Post-IEC Election Results
By Thabo Mosia – South Africa’s Security Cluster has expressed confidence in its preparedness to handle any potential unrest following the imminent announcement of the Independent Electoral Commission’s (IEC) election results, anticipated on Sunday evening. Defence Minister Thandi Modise assured the public that lessons have been learned from the July 2021 unrest, and the nation’s security forces are ready to address any disruptions.
Lessons from Past Unrests
Speaking at a media briefing for Ministers of the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster (Security Cluster) on Sunday, Modise highlighted the proactive measures taken to avoid a repeat of the chaos seen in previous years. “The July 2021 unrest caught us off-guard, but we have learned valuable lessons. We are prepared to tackle any instability this time around,” she stated.
Jacob Zuma Speaks Out
This declaration follows a press conference by MK Party leader Jacob Zuma, who represents 26 smaller parties in the election. Zuma has called on the IEC to delay the announcement of the results, citing numerous “serious” objections that require additional time for thorough investigation.
“We need more time. No one should declare the results tomorrow. No!” Zuma emphasised. He cautioned that proceeding with the announcement could “provoke people” and argued, “nobody is going to die if the results aren’t announced tomorrow.”
Legal Challenges and Governmental Response
The parties represented by Zuma, which include ACC, ACP, ACT, ACDP, SUN, COPE, UDM, XILUVA, among others, have legally challenged the IEC’s decision to announce the election results on Sunday. They insist that any irregularities must be addressed prior to the declaration.
Police Minister Bheki Cele reassured the public that law enforcement agencies are prepared to take action against individuals making inflammatory statements. “There are limitations to people’s rights,” Cele asserted, indicating that threats to national stability will not be tolerated.
Official Statement from the JCPS Ministers
In an official statement issued at the media briefing, the Ministers of the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster stressed their commitment to national security. “We are satisfied with how law enforcement agencies prevented and responded to incidents that could have marred the 7th general elections in the country,” the statement read.
The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) has briefed the ministers on the country’s security status since the 29 May 2024 elections. They confirmed that all measures are in place to ensure a peaceful post-election environment.
“We would like to assure the country that the Constitution provides the mandate to manage the elections to the IEC. The decision to declare the results rests solely with the IEC, in accordance with the law,” the statement continued.
Assurance of Peace and Stability
The statement reaffirmed the Security Cluster’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability. “Any attempt to undermine the authority of the State and South Africa’s constitutional order will not be tolerated and will be dealt with accordingly,” the ministers concluded.
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