Albert Andiseni-Mashingaidze
Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe has issued a stern warning to traffic police officers who accept bribes at roadblocks, allowing unroadworthy vehicles and unlicensed drivers to pass through without proper documentation.
The minister made this statement during the launch of the National Road Safety Campaign.
The event, attended by various stakeholders including traffic police, local government officials, and community leaders, aimed to address the rising concerns over road safety, particularly during the busy holiday seasons.
Minister Kazembe emphasized that the government is committed to holding law enforcement officers accountable for their actions, especially in cases where negligence leads to accidents.
“I would like to reiterate that if a commuter omnibus or any public service vehicle passes through a roadblock with adequate documents to be on the road including its driver and then is involved in a fatal road accident we will go back and deal with those that were manning that roadblock, they will have to face the law too,” he said.
The Minister’s speech resonated with the audience as he highlighted the critical role of law enforcement in maintaining road safety.
He pointed out that the festive seasons, particularly Easter and Independence Day, often see a spike in road traffic accidents, underscoring the need for strict adherence to traffic regulations.
In his address, Minister Kazembe also stressed that road safety is not solely the responsibility of the government.
“We encourage all of you to take a proactive role in making our roads safer this Easter.
This means observing traffic rules, exercising patience and caution while driving and being vigilant on the roads.
Minister Kazembe said, Road transport represents the most widely used means of transport in Zimbabwe and the key means for movement for people and cargo across the nation, and we ought to take it upon ourselves to maintain the harmony of Zimbabwe’s most dominant means of transportation by reducing road carnage.
“It is our sincere wish that the presence of our campaign teams on the nation’s roads with save lives. It has become increasingly clear that road safety is a key aspect of development and needs to be accorded the seriousness it deserves.
This is the key message we are trying to put out to the public this Easter season and beyond.
The Easter and Independence Road Safety Education and Enforcement Campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of road safety and to educate the public on responsible driving practices.
The campaign will include community outreach programs, educational workshops, and increased enforcement of traffic laws to deter reckless driving and promote compliance with road safety regulations.
As part of the campaign, the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe will collaborate with local communities to distribute educational materials and conduct workshops aimed at informing drivers about the dangers of speeding, driving under the influence, and the importance of proper vehicle documentation.
Minister Kazembe’s call to action is a timely reminder for both law enforcement and the public to prioritize safety on the roads.
With the government’s commitment to tackling corruption and enhancing accountability, residents can expect a more vigilant approach to road safety in the coming weeks.
In conclusion, the Minister’s message is clear:
“Let us all take responsibility for our roads. Together, we can make a difference and save lives.
As the Midlands region prepares for the busy holiday season, the emphasis on accountability and community involvement in road safety will be crucial in ensuring safer travels for all. all.
