It is critical to win the political argument that a decentralised state is more effective than a unitary state in delivering essential services, including crime fighting, says Inkatha Freedom Party leader Mangosuthu Buthelezi.
Buthelezi, noting that the South African state’s number one obligation is to protect its citizens, argued that policing in South Africa remains highly centralised “whilst countries such as the United States, Brazil, Canada, Mexico and Germany have a multiplicity of policing agencies at the national, state and local levels”.
In his weekly e-mail letter, Buthelezi said that one measure his party would like to see implemented is an acknowledgement and identification of all crime hot spots. These should be regularly reported to the nation.
Tax rebates should also be provided for private-security measures, which many South Africans have been forced to acquire.
There should also be a moratorium on all pardons and early release programmes for all prisoners convicted of certain categories of crimes, to be stipulated in legislation.
He also suggested that South Africa’s policing and justice system be assisted by international agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Scotland Yard.
He noted that their DNA analysis and specialist investigation techniques and intelligence requirements are vital in busting gangs and international syndicates, “as well as effectively collating evidence required by our courts”.
Unhealthy, unfit, semi-literate police officers should be weeded out and trained. — I-Net Bridge