Mbalula defends Dlamini-Zuma protection
Police minister Fikile Mbalula says security is afforded to any official who has received credible threats.
It follows widespread criticism over the decision to afford former African Union Commission chairperson Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma security by the Presidential Protection Unit (PPU).
Opposition parties are up in arms, saying Dlamini-Zuma cannot enjoy the services of the PPU as she is not a state president or a president's spouse.
But the South African Police Service (SAPS) insists the ANC NEC member and ANC presidential hopeful was afforded protection following the outcome of a security assessment which revealed threats directed at her.
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"For security reasons, the SAPS will not discuss or deliberate on any details of the security afforded to Dr Dlamini-Zuma, or in relation to the mentioned threat and security assessment," said the police's Sally de Beer.
Mbalula told journalists today, that those who believe they require similar security measures should approach the police.
The South African Communist Party (SACP) claims there were attempts to threaten or intimidate the party's 2nd deputy general secretary Solly Mapaila, during a commemoration ceremony of the death of Chris Hani.
"On the basis of analysis that we do around him we will guard him, if there is a need or there is validity around him," says Mbalula, adding, "we guard everybody ladies and gentlemen."
Opposition parties want answers
The Congress of the People (COPE) has meanwhile laid criminal charges against Mbalula at a Pretoria police station.
The party says it reported Mbalula for abusing his powers.
"In the light of these serious violations of the law, in our view the Minister of Police has acted illegally and against the mandate of the PPU by giving a civilian like Dlamini-Zuma protection."
The DA says it will be writing to the Public Protector, asking her to urgently investigate the matter.
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DA leader Mmusi Maimane last week wore a bullet proof vest to a DA march in Johannesburg, claiming he had received death threats.
The party released a statement claiming Dlamini-Zuma was enjoying protection by the PPU before she went to a hotel where the 'apparent' threats were made against her.
"Dlamini-Zuma is a firm contender in the succession race for ANC presidency. It cannot be that between now and December she will be provided VIP protection at taxpayer expense, essentially as preferential treatment in an internal party race," says the DA.
The DA further insists Mbalula needs to provide Parliament with an explanation for matter regarding Dlamini-Zuma.