This is a brief response to the comments made by the Deputy Police Minister Fikile Mbalula.
His statements reinforce our concerns that confusing and inflammatory rhetoric from senior politicians is increasing the likelihood that members of the police will engage in the reckless use of force.
The deputy minister is incorrect in saying that the killings are unavoidable.
Professional police agencies prevail on their members to take the utmost care to avoid the loss of life of innocent people.
It is also not true that the statements by politicians have no effect on the way in which police behave. The tone which is set by political leaders has a direct effect on the approach which police officers employ in relation to their use of force.
The deputy m inister is adding fuel to an already serious situation where a number of innocent people have already been killed.
It is imperative that steps be taken to clarify the standards that police are expected to follow in their use of lethal force and to confirm that police are expected to apply high standards of judgment and high principles.
David Bruce
Senior Researcher: Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation
In Business Day
CSVR is a multi-disciplinary institute that seeks to understand and prevent violence, heal its effects and build sustainable peace at the community, national and regional levels.
