Safety is enshrined in the Bill of Rights

SOUTH Africans recently celebrated Freedom Day, Worker’s Day, and Muslims have just concluded the month of Ramadaan.

The right to vote, the right to fair labour policies, freedom to practise religion, the right to peacefully demonstrate, picket and to present petitions and other fundamental human rights are enshrined in the Bill of Rights in our Constitution. It was through the huge sacrifices of anti-apartheid stalwarts and leaders that these rights were secured after decades of colonialism, repressive laws and the brutal system of apartheid.

The long walk to freedom, democracy and a better life for all who live in South Africa was not an easy road to travel. My appreciation goes out to all South Africans who struggled against apartheid and the segregation laws.

That said, may I ask who is responsible for crime prevention, community safety and security? The right to safety and security is also enshrined in the Bill of Rights. Sadly, daily we read of corruption, muggings, robberies, murder and other violent crimes.

I have read about coffee day, secretaries’ appreciation day, bosses’ day, among other such days. When will we have an anti-corruption and anti-crime awareness day? After all, rule of law, accountability, ethical values, safety and security are important basics that are essential to economic strength, financial progress and to improve the quality of life for all South Africans. MOHAMED SAEED |