Encouraging that Northern Cape police have withdrawn decision to only take statements in English

Cape Forum has learned today that the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape has withdrawn its decision to only take statements in English. The original decision was completely contrary to Section 6(3)(1) of the Constitution, which stipulates that provincial governments must use a minimum of two official languages. Cape Forum is in possession of a document in which the provincial commissioner withdraws this decision.

“It is encouraging that good judgment has prevailed and that this decision has been withdrawn. This rule would have had a significant negative impact on the community therefore Cape Forum welcomes the decision to withdraw it. This once again shows the power of communities mobilising together to apply pressure,” says Bernard Pieters, Head of Community Activation at Cape Forum.

Cape Forum maintains that access to the SAPS must be broadened and that other language communities should use this as a platform to promote other minority languages.

“English is probably not the first language of the police officers on duty, which also increases the possibility of inaccurate statements being taken. Errors that occur during the translation of statements can lead to statements being thrown out or important information being overlooked. Communities should, where possible, be allowed to make statements in their own mother tongue to ensure that information is accurately conveyed and can therefore be followed up more successfully,” Pieters concludes.

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