Strengthening ties between the police and the community remains key to building a safer Umzinyathi District. This was the central message at the Umzinyathi District Community Policing Forum (CPF) annual general meeting, held at the Dundee Detectives Lecture Hall last Thursday.

The meeting was attended by several dignitaries, including District Commissioner Major General Francis Slambert, the Provincial Social Crime Commander, the district deputy director of the Department of Community Safety and Liaison, representatives from the Provincial CPF Executive Committee, and officials from the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), who facilitated the election process.

In her keynote address, Major General Slambert emphasised the vital role of the CPF in strengthening trust between the police and the community. She called for unity and collective action in the fight against crime, adding that collaboration remained the cornerstone of safety and security in the district.

Before voting began, important aspects of the CPF Constitution were outlined. The election process ran smoothly, resulting in the following office bearers being elected:

• Chairperson: Lloyd Kgotshane

• Deputy chairperson: Sinenhlanhla Ntshangase

• Secretary: Zanele Sithole

• Deputy secretary: Yasmeen Maistry

• Treasurer: Nondumiso Makhathini

• Public relations officer: Dumiso Sokhabase

• Additional members: Mrs Sabela, Miss Xulu, Mr Busa Ndlela, Mr Sipho Masina, Mrs Sithole, Mr Zulu and Mr Khanyile.

In his closing remarks, newly elected chairperson Kgotshane pledged to lead a united and effective structure. He said the CPF would continue working closely with all stakeholders to strengthen intergovernmental relations, improve service delivery and ensure the safety of communities within the Umzinyathi District.

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