Transport minister calls for calm during voter registration weekend

AS the country prepares for the voter registration weekend on September 18 and 19, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison, Neliswa Peggy Nkonyeni is calling for calm and peace in the province. 

The voter registration weekend is in preparation for the upcoming local government elections due to take place on Monday, November 1. 

ALSO READ: IEC ready for registration weekend

Nkonyeni urged the citizens of the province to use the voter registration period to demonstrate political tolerance and appealed to political parties to work with law enforcement agencies where there are potential threats of violence. 

She said law enforcement agencies in the province have developed a clear security plan to secure the voter registration weekend.

“We can assure all citizens of their safety and that their constitutional right is guaranteed and protected.

Nkonyeni stated that voting is an important constitutional right, and no one must be denied that opportunity.

“Our province has made progress in addressing political violence, therefore, any attempts to reverse these gains will not be tolerated,” said Nkonyeni.

She said while there are few incidents reported, the provincial government is of a view that the province is now achieving fair political stability and is closer to achieving total political co-existence.

ALSO READ: What you need to know about the voter registration weekend

According to the minister, there are currently a few areas which are regarded as flashpoint areas. “The province has completely eradicated what was known as the ‘no go areas’. Today, all political parties are free to campaign in any ward and local municipality,” added Nkonyeni.

She added that political leaders should engage with their supporters and promote political tolerance.

“Those who will be found to be on the wrong side of the law will be dealt with harshly,” warned Nkonyeni.

Caxton Local Media Covid-19 reporting