Eastern Cape Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane has issued a heartfelt plea to motorists to exercise extreme caution on the roads due to a disturbing rise in road accident fatalities this festive season. The current death toll is approaching 90, with Premier Mabuyane emphasizing that this trend is devastating and claims the lives of loved ones.
Premier Mabuyane urged all road users to be extremely cautious and vigilant on the roads, adhere to traffic laws, and drive defensively to prevent more deaths. He condemned the senseless loss of life on the roads, stating that the pain and suffering inflicted on families is immeasurable.
The Premier emphasized that the reckless disregard of human life will not be tolerated and law enforcement agencies will work tirelessly to ensure those responsible for these road crashes are held accountable. Motorists are urged to avoid distractions while driving, be courteous, and respectful to other road users.
Premier Mabuyane concluded that together, we can reduce the number of fatalities and create a province where all road users share the road and can travel safely. On behalf of the Eastern Cape Provincial Government, Premier Mabuyane extended deepest condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones during this period.
This plea comes as the country experiences a significant increase in fatal road traffic crashes, with 439 fatal crashes recorded, resulting in 512 deaths, a 2.6% increase compared to last year. The Eastern Cape has recorded 54 fatalities from 47 crashes, with pedestrians accounting for the majority of deaths.
