Previous report and Shongwe’s initial comments

ERMELO — Following our earlier coverage of Vusi Shongwe riding a motorcycle without a helmet, the former Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison has responded to new images and video showing similar incidents.

In the initial report, Shongwe was observed riding through Ermelo’s central business district without a helmet.

He explained that the helmet was behind him on the seat, that he was driving slowly, and that he felt uncomfortably hot.

He apologised for his actions, stating that he respected traffic laws and aimed to set an exemplary example.

New footage and public observations

Additional photographs and video of him sent in by a reader at Merino Mall show Shongwe without a helmet as well.

In these images, he is stationary and speaking with members of the public.

Two individuals have reported seeing Shongwe frequently riding without a helmet, prompting further questions about compliance with helmet regulations.

Helmet laws and safety regulations

Section 52 of the National Road Traffic Act, 1996, mandates that all riders and passengers of motorcycles, including three-wheelers, must wear a properly fastened protective helmet unless a documented medical exemption exists.

There is no exemption based solely on speed, vehicle size, or number of wheels.

Clothing, weather, and environment

In previous footage, Shongwe explained that he removed his helmet due to hot weather.

In the new Merino Mall images, he is wearing what appears to be a tracksuit, while others nearby are dressed in warm clothing, too.

If he had been riding in these conditions, this context would illustrate that heat would likely not have been a factor.

Shongwe’s clarification and apology

Shongwe clarified his understanding of helmet requirements, stating:

“My misunderstanding of a three-wheeler is that it falls under the vehicle category, but for safety on our roads I think I must always wear a safety helmet.”

Shongwe noted that in the new images he was stationary and interacting with members of the public.

He added, “Anyway, I’ve apologised for annoying anyone.”

Public interest and road safety

The follow-up underscores continued public interest in road safety compliance, particularly given Shongwe’s former role in promoting traffic law awareness across Mpumalanga.

One reader told Highvelder that, given his former role as MEC responsible for traffic safety among others, Shongwe should be familiar with the regulations his department enforced.

Another reader claimed, “The former MEC is misrepresenting the truth — he never uses a helmet when riding that motorcycle. I have seen him several times and never a helmet. Who is going to stop him? No one!”