Mamabolo urges Steenhuisen to withdraw unsavoury remarks about Crime Prevention Wardens or face action from Parly

CAPE TOWN - Gauteng Finance MEC Jacob Mamabolo has defended the province’s recently-appointed crime prevention wardens, saying they are doing an excellent job.

Mamabolo wants Parliament to investigate Democratic Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen for disparaging remarks he recently made - suggesting the recruits are unqualified drunkards in cheap uniforms.

During a debate on the State of the Nation Address in Parliament on Tuesday, Mamabolo said the impact of Amapanyaza as they’ve become known is already being felt.

Following their appointment by Premier Panyaza Lesufi, the DA has criticised the Gauteng Crime Prevention wardens alleging they are not up to the job and have been attacking innocent civilians.

But Mamabolo has given a different account in Parliament.

"Let me assure you members that already the statistical evidence is proving that our crime prevention wardens are doing an excellent job, and making a positive impact on reducing the rate of crime in the province."

Mamabolo, however, said he's shocked and concerned about Steenhuisen’s criticism - saying his remarks had been racist and that he’s brought Parliament into disrepute.

"If he does not apologise and withdraw what he said, Parliament should consider taking strong action and we wait for feedback from this house to hold him accountable."

But Steenhuisen appeared unfazed - taunting an angry Mamabolo from his seat by laughing at him and imitating drinking from a bottle.