Lt-Gen Manamela(left) during a visit to a voting station in Hendrik’s
By Kopano Dibakwane&Lwazi Raul-Shongwe
The Provincial Police Commissioner in Mpumalanga, Lt-Gen Semakaleng Manamela, has reminded members of the South African Police Service(SAPS) about their Code of Conduct as they, alongside the Provincial Joints, rally behind the Independent Electoral Commission(IEC) to ensure a smooth and safe election on Wednesday 29 May 2024.
The SAPS Code of Conduct is said to be the ethical and professional standard that all SAPS members must adhere to, both on-and-off duty. The Code of Conduct is also said to include guidelines on impartiality, neutrality, as well as respect for human rights, fairness, equity and proper use of authority.
Manamela said that there will not be any tolerance for any form of misconduct, also that members who violate their Code of Conduct will face severe consequences.
“ Members are expected to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ensure that the elections are conducted in a peaceful and conducive environment,” said Manamela.
According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Colonel Donald Mdhluli, said the SAPS plays a vital role in ensuring that the 2024 National and Provincial Elections are free, fair and credible.
“ Members of the police are to be vigilant, proactive and responsive to any incidence that may arise. Members of the SAPS will be the most visible representatives of the force during this critical time. The conduct of members will have direct impact on public’s perception about the police and the credibility of the work carried out in support of the IEC mandate,” said Mdhluli.
Manamela was part of the delegation that accompanied the Premier of Mpumalanga, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, during a visit to a voting station at KwaZamokuhle in Hendrina, under the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality, on Tuesday 28 to monitor the situation before the elections on Wednesday 29 May 2024.
