- National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola has made a public pledge ahead of the 4 November 2026 elections
- General Masemola identified specific provinces where political violence has already claimed the lives of councillors and party members
- The announcement sparked mixed reactions on social media as South Africans weighed in on General Masemola's promise
Source: UGC
Byron Pillay, a Briefly News journalist, has spent a decade reporting on South Africa's political landscape, crime, and social issues. He worked as a newspaper journalist for 10 years before transitioning to online journalism.
EASTERN CAPE - National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola has assured South Africans that the police service is prepared to guarantee both safety and fairness during next month's general elections.
Masemola made the remarks at the launch of the safer festive season operation held in Mthatha, in the Eastern Cape, on 23 October 2026. The Local Government Elections will be held on 4 November 2026.
Masemola says SAPS identified hot spots
Addressing concerns about electoral violence, he acknowledged that certain areas of the country remain volatile, pointing to four provinces requiring heightened attention.
"We do have a little bit of hot spots here and there, for example, the Western Cape and some areas in this province (Eastern Cape). In KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng also, you have seen some killings of some councillors and members of political parties.
"But we have deployed police to stabilise those areas. And we think as we continue with the build-up, we're going to deploy more members. And we think we are ready; we are ready for the election to make sure that the climate will be conducive for people to go out and exercise their right to vote," Masemola said.
He added that the police would scale up deployments as election day draws closer, with the goal of creating an environment where citizens can vote without fear.
How did South Africans react?
The announcement drew mixed reactions on social media as some users questioned whether a truly fair election was achievable.
Helen des Vages wrote:
"Fair??? Are you sure? So no ballots will be dumped next to the road? No voter rigging? Seeing is believing, my dear, but this time the country is voting as one."
@ndathaneguy drew a distinction between the two assurances, commenting:
"Safe, yes. Only the IEC can guarantee fairness."
Nkonzo Gumede urged vigilance, writing:
"Can we please watch out for the ANC and make sure that the immigrants don't vote."
Monique van Wyk stated:
"All I'm interested in is for Fannie to come after Fadiel. I will never forget Fadiel badmouthing Fannie."
General Masemola says he's not out for revenge
Briefly News reported on General Masemola’s return to work as National Police Commissioner after his suspension was lifted.
His suspension followed charges linked to a R360 million SAPS health services tender, which were later withdrawn by prosecutors.
On his first day back, Masemola said he was not seeking revenge and urged police leaders to work together.
Source: Briefly News
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