DailySun
Johannesburg – ActionSA has welcomed the high court’s decision that declared the City of Johannesburg’s VIP Protection policy as “unconstitutional and invalid.”
ActionSA remarked: “This ruling, which identified the policy as unlawful, strengthens our position on the matter, in contrast to the unfounded statements made by the unaware DA caucus leader.”
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ActionSA has consistently opposed the VIP Protection Policy, including voting against it during council meetings.
“There is already a provision that allows public representatives to seek the necessary protection if they encounter threats,” ActionSA stated on Friday, (3 January 2025).
“We believe this provision is sufficient. Our stance is that resources designated for VIP protection should be redirected towards enhancing service delivery.”
“However, we have been informed that personnel would be drawn from the JMPD [Johannesburg Metro Police Department] pool.”
ActionSA highlighted that the security detail for Cllr Nobuhle Mthembu, the Council Speaker for the City of Johannesburg, did not correspond with the assertions made in the VIP Protection Policy.
ActionSA further noted: “Cllr Mthembu does not benefit from an entourage or numerous bodyguards.”
“We believe it is vital for public representatives to stay accessible to the communities that elected them, rather than creating a divide.”
“Unlike on March 20, 2024, when the Council sanctioned this unconstitutional policy, ActionSA now holds seats in the Legislature, and we will utilize our positions to ensure the policy complies with the Act and ministerial directives.”
“We will also ensure that any decision regarding the increase of a specific municipal councillor’s personal protection allowance adheres to the Act and ministerial guidelines, as mandated by the court.”
ActionSA urged the DA to “cease their deceptive narratives and propaganda” against them and to collaborate with Council Speaker Mthembu in her efforts to correct past errors.
