News24 reports that an internal pushback is mounting against measures to restore command, control and discipline in the Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD).
On Thursday, Tshwane's mayoral committee member (MMC) for community safety, Grandi Theunissen, detailed his concerns regarding the resistance against the return of discipline to the TMPD. "As a result of numerous complaints by members of the public, who have become the victims of criminal elements within the TMPD, various directives and other internal measures have been implemented by the acting chief of police, Basil Nkhwashu, with my full support," Theunissen pointed out. One of the directives was that motorists pulled over by metro police could record their interaction, ask for appointment certificates and take photos of the vehicle's number plates. “Although this does not come as a surprise, I am disheartened by manifestations of active and passive resistance against these ongoing attempts by the acting chief of police," said Theunissen. He indicated his concern about the involvement of some union representatives in what he described as the support of criminal activities and a smear campaign against the acting chief of police. "While I respect the unions and the role that they play, I want to caution against attempts to co-manage the TMPD. However, we do welcome constructive engagement with regard to these matters," Theunissen commented.
- Read the full original of the report in the above regard by Alex Mitchley at News24