Collin McKenzie named chair at Bedfordview CPF elective meeting
The meeting culminated in the official election of Collin McKenzie as the new Chairperson of the Bedfordview CPF.
Key stakeholders and police officials gathered at the Nicol Hotel on June 18 for the much-anticipated Bedfordview CPF elective AGM.
The meeting culminated in the official election of Collin McKenzie as the new chairperson of the Bedfordview CPF.
The proceedings were overseen by Dr Reza Patel, executive chairperson of the Community Police Board in Ekurhuleni, ensuring a transparent and legally compliant electoral process.
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“We have walked a long road. The relationship with SAPS has been phenomenal so far, and I want to thank this elected committee for availing themselves. It’s a great opportunity for our community to rebuild,” said McKenzie.
McKenzie highlighted the importance of continuing key projects, most notably the revamp of Bedfordview’s local CCTV camera network, describing it as a crucial step in enhancing public safety.
“We are making excellent progress, and we aim to create a welcoming space for the entire Bedfordview community.”
The AGM was attended by representatives from various community sectors, Ward 20 Clr Jill Humphreys, Pearl Manqele (chairperson of the Ekurhuleni West Sub-District CPF), and Khehla Khambule from the Department of Community Safety.
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Newly elected CPF committee:
• Chairperson: Collin McKenzie
• Deputy chairperson: Pieter Meyer
• Secretary: Ntando Lupalule
• Deputy secretary: Tamryn Bluff
• Treasurer: Laila Smith
• PRO: James Chang
• Additional members: John Rocha, Felicia Manjamanja, McDonald Mdau, and Jacque Steyn (Head of Patrollers).
Bedfordview station commander, Colonel Wellington Mathiane, officially dissolved the former interim structure during the AGM, expressing gratitude to those who had served during a challenging period.
“You stepped up when the community needed you most. I am relieved that I now have brothers and sisters to work with. Together, we will identify priority portfolios and tackle challenges as a team.”
Dr Patel provided attendees with an informative overview of the legal framework governing CPFs, anchored in Section 22(2) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa and further defined in Sections 19(1) and 19(1A) of the South African Police Service Act.
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He stressed that although CPF members do not have the same arresting powers as SAPS officers, they play a pivotal role as the eyes and ears of the community.
Portfolios such as the Criminal Justice Portfolio ensure ongoing engagement with the justice system to prevent cases from falling through the cracks.
“CPF is not just about patrolling in jackets. It’s a structured statutory body with defined roles, responsibilities and regulations.
“You must live or work in the area, hold a South African ID, and have a clean criminal record. The work is voluntary, but the reward is the impact you make,” said Dr Patel.
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Dr Patel also announced that Gauteng CPF structures have recently received public funding for the first time, with over R20 million allocated to support community safety initiatives.
Pearl Manqele congratulated the new committee, saying:
“Thank you for your time and commitment. It wasn’t an easy road, but you made it. We wish you all the best in your term and pledge our full support.”
With a renewed leadership team and robust support from district officials and law enforcement, the Bedfordview CPF is poised for a new chapter of community-driven safety and collaboration.
You start a journey with a single step, and we have much work ahead. But together, we are creating a community that is safe, supported, and united,” stated McKenzie.
