NEPOTISM IS HARMING THE MORALE IN THE POLICE

The South African Police Union (SAPU) complained about the growing culture of patronage in the Police, during the union's presentation to the Portfolio Committee in Parliament today. When it comes to appointments, according to SAPU there is an unwritten policy for a few members of the elite and a written rule for the rest of the members. According to the unwritten rule, ranks are skipped and people are appointed to high positions which are contradictory to the written rules.

"It is clear that nepotism is busy playing a bigger role with the appointment and promotion of members in the Police Service. Hardworking members who make sacrifices and attend courses are not promoted and have to remain in the same role for years with the same ranks without any promotions. If one has the right family and friends it is not about one's qualifications and expertise, one is assured of a high ranking position and it definitely lowers the morale of the Police and is therefore nothing other than corruption," Mr. Pieter Groenewald (MP), chief spokesperson on Police for the Freedom Front Plus says.

"The Commissioner and the Minister of Police often say that the bad apples should be rooted out of the Police Service and that there is no place for corrupt members. If they are serious with their statements they have to take action against nepotism otherwise they are party to it," Groenewald said.

Statement issued by Mr. Pieter Groenewald, FF Plus Chief Spokesperson: Police, March 1 2011

Click here to sign up to receive our free daily headline email newsletter