MEC Ricardo Mackenzie in online storm over rainy video
WESTERN Cape Cultural Affairs and Sport MEC Ricardo Mackenzie is at the centre of an online storm after posting a video of him flanked by Metro Police officers who were soaked in the severe weather on Monday.
In the video posted by Mackenzie, he is joined by councillor Avron Plaatjies, and two officers standing in bucketing rain as Plaatjies and Mackenzie explain to the public which numbers to call in the case of an emergency and flooding.
The officers are seen standing in the video, not uttering a word as heavy rain pours down on them.
One officer is seen wiping the rain from his face, while the other officer’s head is slightly tilted sideways as he tries to keep his eye open against the downpour.
This did not sit well with online users, as residents questioned why the video had to be taken in the pouring rain, while others accused the DA member of staging a publicity stunt with local government elections scheduled for November.
One user commented on the post, saying: “What was the purpose of having the officers stand in the rain just to help bring your message across? Yes, officers will get wet when duty calls; that’s part of the job, but this felt a bit unnecessary.
“They stood there in the rain for your messaging, while you’re probably home now in dry clothes and comfort.”
Another user said: “Why are you standing in the rain? You could have recorded the video in the car.”
Despite the public’s criticism, when the Cape Argus sister publication, Daily Voice reached out to the MEC for comment regarding the criticism, his office said that he is “often out on the ground”.
A statement read: “Minister Ricardo Mackenzie is often out on the ground with residents, officials, and public representatives. During times of crisis, sharing critical safety messages with communities is important and necessary. The minister would like to thank residents and all emergency services for coming together and weathering the storm over the last few days.
“The priority remains public safety, awareness, and ensuring residents receive timely information during dangerous weather conditions.”
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