The Akasia CPF Sector 2 has appointed Lerato Makwe as its new interim chairperson, ushering in what she describes as a people-centred, action-driven chapter focused on restoring trust, strengthening partnerships, and confronting crime at its roots.

Makwe said the position is not about status but service.

“This is not a title to celebrate, but a duty to serve. I step into this position aware of the pain, fear, and frustration many residents carry, and [I’m] committed to walking this journey with the people, not above them,” she said.

Her decision to put her name forward was driven by a deep love for the community and a refusal to normalise fear.

Makwe said crime has devastated families and silenced hope, and leadership must rise when communities are hurting.

“I stepped forward because leadership must rise when the people are hurting,” she said.

She brings grassroots leadership experience, strong community mobilisation skills, and a unifying approach she believes will strengthen the CPF.

“Safety is built through listening, co-ordination, and action, not promises,” she said.

Makwe acknowledged that the role carries heavy responsibility, particularly in safeguarding public trust.

“People’s lives, dignity, and safety depend on how seriously we take this work. I must ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability at all times.”

Akasia Sector 2 continues to face serious crime challenges, including violent crime, GBV, substance abuse, house robberies, and broader social disorder.

Makwe said these crimes are deeply rooted in social challenges that cannot be addressed in isolation.

Among them, GBV remains her greatest concern. “A community cannot be safe when homes are unsafe,” she stressed.

Strengthening collaboration between the CPF, SAPS, and residents is a key priority under her leadership.

She described the CPF as a bridge between the police and the community, ensuring open dialogue, mutual respect, and understanding of policing processes.

“Crime thrives where there is division. Unity is our strongest weapon,” she said.

Makwe also highlighted the vital role residents play in crime prevention, urging them to move from the sidelines into an active partnership.

“Residents are not spectators; they are partners. Reporting crime, joining CPF activities, looking out for neighbours, and refusing silence are powerful acts of resistance against crime.”

Makwe acknowledged that many residents feel disconnected from CPF structures, and rebuilding trust will require consistency and visible action.

“We will take CPF to the people, not wait for people to come to us. Action speaks louder than words,” she said.

Inclusivity will also be central, with efforts to ensure youth, women, elders, and vulnerable groups are represented and heard.

She plans to stabilise the CPF, restore trust, strengthen patrol coordination, and launch key initiatives, including GBV Care, Security Support Collaboration, Faith and Community Support, and youth empowerment and education programmes.

“This is your CPF. Your voice matters. Together, we will stand against crime, violence, and fear. We choose unity over division, courage over silence, and action over despair.”

Do you have more information about the story?

Please send us an email to bennittb@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.

For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East

For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram or TikTok or WhatsApp Channel