EFF statement on police stations closing their doors during periods of loadshedding
24 July 2023
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) notes, unsurprisingly, further collapse of state services under the ANC government, in the form of the closure of police stations during loadshedding periods. This practice further limits the already limited capacity of the South African Police Services' (SAPS) police stations to serve the community.
During loadshedding, citizens are at greater risk as criminals exploit the darkness. The closure of police stations further worsens the situation, leaving communities vulnerable and unprotected. This is especially concerning in a country with high crime rates, particularly gender-based violence and crimes against children.
The current reporting system for rape victims is already deeply flawed, as officers often fail to take them seriously, or even turn them away, leading to further trauma and re-victimisation of survivors. The intermittent closures of police stations during loadshedding will exacerbate this issue, leading to even lower reporting of sexual assault cases, perpetuating further state violence against victims.
The EFF has consistently highlighted the adverse impact of the electricity crisis on our fundamental human rights, including the right to safety. The ANC government's mismanagement has led to the erosion of various essential rights, including access to clean water and free healthcare, leaving many South Africans vulnerable and disadvantaged.
Recently, a landmark ruling by the North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria mandated that all hospitals, clinics, schools, and police stations should be exempt from electricity disruptions. This significant judgment was based on the finding that the state had repeatedly failed in its constitutional and statutory obligations, citizens' rights to healthcare, security, and education.
In a decisive move, the North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria issued an order to Minister of Public Enterprises, Pravin Gordhan, compelling him to take all reasonable steps within 60 days to safeguard public health establishments, state schools, and the South African Police Service from the impacts of load shedding.
Despite the clear ruling the government has taken a disappointing stance. Rather than working towards implementing the necessary changes to protect essential services, Minister of Public Enterprises, Pravin Gordhan, announced that his department will challenge the court order by appealing the decision.
The state of collapse under Gordhan's guidance is a glaring reflection of years of neglect that our country has endured. It is now time for South Africans to stand united and declare "no more" to the ANC as we approach the 2024 elections. Cast your votes in favor of the EFF, a party that prioritises the preservation of human dignity and puts the well-being of our people at the forefront.
Issued by Sinawo Thambo, National Spokesperson, EFF, 24 July 2023
