TSCZ warns parties against poll euphoria

THE Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe (TSCZ) has warned politicians and their supporters against driving excitably on local and major roads during the election period to avoid unnecessary road carnages.

TSCZ corporate communications officer Mr Tatenda Chinoda said they had noted with concern the willy-nilly breaking of road traffic regulations by some political fanatics.

He said motorists must not get carried away by the elections euphoria.

“Euphoria or over-excitement on the part of motorists is one of the key causes of fatal road accidents in Zimbabwe. Normally the over-excitement is event-related,” said Mr Chinoda.

“The event can be a football match, a political rally or an election. “As TSCZ, we encourage motorists aligned to different political parties to maintain high levels discipline during the elections period.

“Fatal traffic accidents normally take place when people are in the midst of celebrations. We encourage the victors (in the elections) to always abide by the road traffic regulations. They should value the sanctity of life.”

Mr Chinoda said fatal accidents were detrimental to both the country’s population and human capital.

He said leaders of political parties, were encouraged to urge their supporters to maintain and observe order on the roads.

He said they were also worried with a culture where some people exposed their lives to dangers as they travel to political meetings in overloaded vehicles.