Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Royal Eswatini Police Service has applauded the nation for the good behaviour they displayed during the primary elections.
The law enforcement agency expressed its appreciation for an incident and crime-free primary elections through the Chief Police Information and Communications Officer, Superintendent, Phindile Vilakati. She applauded other security forces, community police, traditional authorities and other stakeholders who contributed to the success of the national exercise.
“We would like to commend the nation for their behaviour and public transport operators for safely transporting Emaswati to various voting stations even though the conditions of the road were not favourable in some areas which where cause by the windstorm,” said Vilakati.
She highlighted that Emaswati were on their best behaviour throughout the weekend such that there were less fatalities or violent crimes that were reported to the police.
She said such cooperation was always appreciated as the REPS was working together with members of the public and other stakeholders in the fight against crime. She said the police on their own cannot be able to suppress crime and prevent road carnages hence stakeholders like the public were key.
In the spirit of the Police operational mantra “Your Safety is Our Safety, Together Let Us Stop Violence, Suppress Crime and Minimize Road Carnage”, Vilakati appealed to members of the public to show the same cooperation, support and patience on the roads during the Umhlanga Ceremony.
She said where possible the level of such behaviour should be improved as the safety and security for the Imbali regiment remains a priority, both on the roads and in areas where they will be camping.
She appealed to those who would be transporting the libutfo to be very cautious, alert and considerate to ensure that road safety was at its peak. She urged other motorists to be patient and cooperate with officials on the ground around areas where the libutfo will be crossing on the road. Vilakati said the safety of all road users was paramount hence everyone should be accorded the same level of respect so to afford any road fatalities.
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The chief police information and communications officer further appealed for patience and cooperation during the Eswatini International Trade Fair, which will be running concurrently with the reed dance.
She encouraged the nation to make efforts to improve their personal safety and further urged motorists to follow instructions that will be provided by officials on the ground from time to time in ensuring a free flow of traffic. She advised those who would be attending the Trade Fair not to stay until late, unless they have made transport provisions to avoid hitchhiking at night as this exposes them to risks.
Vilakati also stated that another significant national event that will take place simultaneouly with the Reed Dance and the Trade fair, was the celebration of the Kingdom’s 55 years of independence.
She stated that the country would be having visitors from other countries who will be in Eswatini to attend the double celebration.
She urged motorists to make sure that they follow all traffic rules which includes observing road signs, exercise patience while giving each other equal opportunities on the road and most importantly avoid excessive speeding which was a contributor to road carnage.
Pedestrians were also reminded about the importance of using designated crossings such as overhead bridges and other safe areas. Vilakati further cautioned motorists against driving while drunk since this weekend would translate to a long weekend with Monday being the Umhlanga holiday.
She said in many road fatalities, alcohol had been a factor and warned that people should ensure that they have a sober driver and pedestrian do not endanger themselves by staggering into the roadway.
Police have been deployed to all strategic areas throughout this busy long weekend to ensure safety and security of Emaswati. Traffic officers will be on the roads manning roadblocks and patrolling in a bid to ensure that all road users are safe and protected while moving around the country celebrating the cultural event and emerald double celebration of the country’s independence and King’s birthday.
The REPS reiterates its commitment to serving and protecting the nation, keeping everyone safe and secure while ensuring that peace and stability prevail.
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