KZN’s Nkonyeni warns against intolerance ahead of voter registration weekend

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for transport, community safety and liaison, Peggy Nkonyeni, has warned against political intolerance ahead of the voter registration weekend.

Nkonyeni’s call comes after three ANC volunteers were gunned down outside a primary school in Inanda, north of Durban, at the weekend.

Millions of new and old eligible voters are expected to register this weekend to participate in the upcoming polls in November.

“The recent incidents of attacks and killing of community members in a community meeting in Inanda last weekend have sparked fears in the province,” said Nkonyeni.

“This incident is believed to be linked to the dispute around the nomination of a councillor representative. The Political Violence Task Team is now investigating the case,” she said.

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Nkonyeni has urged citizens to use the voter registration period to demonstrate political tolerance.

She also appealed to political parties to work with law-enforcement agencies where there are potential threats of violence.

Law-enforcement agencies in the province have developed a security plan to ensure voter registration weekend goes on without a hitch.

“We can assure all citizens of their safety and that their constitutional right is guaranteed and protected. Voting is an important constitutional right, and no one must be denied that opportunity,” said Nkonyeni.

Nkonyeni is also the chairperson of KZN’s Multi-Party Political Intervention Committee, responsible for addressing all potential areas of threats.

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The committee comprises the Independent Electoral Commission, provincial government, police and leaders of political parties.

“Currently, there are few areas regarded as flashpoint areas. However, we have completely eradicated what was known as the “no-go” areas,” stressed Nkonyeni.

All political parties can campaign in any ward and local municipality.

“We call on the political leaders to engage their supporters and promote political tolerance. Political supporters must desist from making provocative remarks and song,” warned Nkonyeni.

Supporters are being urged to respect other’s rights to conduct political activities and not remove posters of opposition parties and independent candidates.

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