Community policing must stay above party politics to protect democratic integrity

Daily Maverick · 10/11/2026, 8:40:31 AM

As South Africa heads into local government elections it is important that Community Policing Forums (CPFs) remain strictly non-partisan. There is a fear that political candidates will use CPF platforms for campaigning, and to prevent this provincial authorities need to reinforce recusal rules, social media guidelines and impartial reporting mechanisms to maintain public trust in community safety.