Chairperson, firstly, I would like to congratulate the hon Minister for taking a positive and bold step and a hands-on approach to ensuring the safety and security of all our people.
We must be realistic when confronted with challenges, because crime is one of the obstacles to the advancement of any country, and South Africa is not unique in this. Irrespective of political affiliation, we all fly one flag and it is incumbent upon all of us to march forward with courage, conviction and determination. We must never stop until we have delivered a caring and a truly crime-free society.
True accolades must undoubtedly be awarded to all those policemen and policewomen who execute their duties with honesty, integrity and hard work.
The MF urges that the SAPS should be an institution that is friendly and approachable, and understands the Code of Conduct for the Police Service. We need to put a system in place, one that we are all aware of, so that if a matter is reported there are checks in place to ensure that it has been sufficiently and successfully addressed by the police. A police officer who has not addressed a matter appropriately must be dealt with. This will ensure accountability by the Police Service.
Hon Minister, the MF is also concerned about our recruitment criteria. We must ensure that there is a clear distinction among new recruits between those who simply want to earn a salary and those who have the aptitude and desire to be career policemen or policewomen.
Critics have raised concerns, as some police officers do not know when, who and how to shoot. There must be particular circumstances when you may pull the trigger. Recently, a boy was shot in a car when he was playing with a toy gun which, it seems, appeared to the police to be a real gun. No warning shot was fired. When the police are suspicious, they must not be trigger happy. Another incident was when teachers were on strike and the police pulled the trigger. We must ensure that we have police officers who are skilled and caring.
The issues of bribery and corruption must be dealt with appropriately. Cases of child abuse, corporal punishment and sexual abuse at schools must not be swept under the carpet. In areas where there is a high rate of drug abuse, even at schools, people are let off easily and loosely.
Hon Minister, every person has the right to believe and practise their religion. The red string outrage that took place in the Hindu policeman's case is a violation of this right, which is enshrined in our Constitution. Was a search done on all policemen and policewomen? To do it selectively to Hindus is discriminatory and racist, and smacks of victimisation. One would like to ask: To what extent did the red string interfere with the uniform of the police? He did not put on a kurta, a hat or a traditional Zulu outfit. The red string merely symbolises love, peace and protection. I am reminded, however, of the prophetic words of Mahatma Gandhi that he would allow the windows of his home to be open. The MF supports the Budget Vote. [Time expired.] [Applause.]