One observation, amid scores of research works on the complexities of crime in South Africa, struck me as particularly valid recently. The South African Institute of Race Relations concluded lately that:

"No one seems to know why violent crime remains so widespread. Nor is it clear why police capacity to counter it is so inadequate. But part of the reason is that the state has over-reached itself. It has sought to intervene in so many different spheres that it has compromised its ability to discharge its core responsibilities. In doing so, it has also undermined the rule of law."

This is a truly fundamental observation and one the IFP can safely endorse.

This approach is symptomatic of the ruling party's compulsion to intervention, both social and economic. At the same time as the government feels compelled to jam its finger into every pie, it inevitably feels the sting of its own inefficiency and ineffectiveness.

The government's priorities are simply so many that, in the end, they cease to be priorities. What we see is a monstrous government machine going about the business of resolving the most serious challenges we face with a mundane monotony. One policy that, at least in theory, can prioritise the fight against crime are expanded Community Policing Forums.

We in the IFP have never had any doubt that communities themselves have to spearhead the battle against crime. We therefore welcome the announced expansion of CPFs in principle, but fear its implementation in the hands of the ANC.

Given the country's bloated civil service and its unfocused priorities, it may well be that the government will end up passing the responsibility for safety and security on to the unsuspecting communities. The IFP pledges to maximise parliamentary scrutiny to ensure this does not happen.

Dr Lionel Mtshali MPP
Leader of the Official Opposition

Contact: Dr Lionel Mtshali, 083 256 4902