Police step up election security preparations ahead of November 4 LGE

The police said they are ready for the November 4 Local Government Elections.

With November 4 Local Government Elections (LGE) approaching, the Police have stepped up security planning, bringing together national and provincial leaders, law enforcement officials and private security representatives to strengthen election readiness.

The drive aims to ensure voters can cast their ballots in a safe, secure and peaceful environment, according to a police statement.

The Ministry has been receiving regular briefings from senior SAPS management, led by National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola, and NATJOINTS co-chairperson Lieutenant General Mosikili on operational preparedness and coordination among law enforcement agencies.

On Monday, the Ministry widened its consultations, holding a virtual meeting with provincial premiers and Members of Executive Councils (MECs) responsible for community safety.

The discussions focused on strengthening cooperation between government departments and aligning election security measures across all provinces.

Private security has also been brought into the planning process.

Through the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA), the Ministry engaged industry representatives on how private security companies could support wider safety efforts within their respective mandates.

The consultations are expected to continue in the run-up to the polls, with officials assessing provincial preparedness, identifying potential risks and ensuring operational plans are ready to respond to emerging challenges.

“These engagements will continue in the lead-up to the LGE to assess provincial preparedness, identify potential risks and ensure that appropriate operational plans are in place to address emerging challenges,” the police said.

The Ministry said it remained committed to supporting efforts to protect voters’ democratic rights, including their ability to vote freely without fear, intimidation or disruption.