'Measures in place' to ensure voters' safety during May elections
Minister of Defence Thandi Modise says measures have been put in place to protect voting stations during the national and provincial elections in May.
On Sunday, the Justice, Crime Prevention, and Security Cluster ministers briefed the media on the state of readiness for the May 29 polls.
Modise said the measures extend to national key points and other facilities vulnerable to criminal activities.
"We have put measures in place to protect all public facilities that will be used for voting, national key points and other essential infrastructure that might be targeted by criminal elements.
"In addition, the Criminal Matters Amendment Act of 2015 states that any person who tempers with or damages essential infrastructure is guilty of criminal offence and can be sentenced to a maximum of 30 years if found guilty".
She assured all voters would be safe when they cast their votes.
"During the election period, we will do everything in our power to protect all those who want to exercise their constitutional right to vote. Ensuring the safety and security of all voters is of paramount importance".
Modise said the courts are also prepared and ready to handle all election-related crimes.
"Prosecutors will stand by to prosecute offences such as electoral fraud and corruption, removing or defacing political parties and campaign posters, interfering with the duties of the electoral officers or forcing anyone to vote anywhere they do not wish to.”
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