In Conversation With Michael Waters MPL-DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for E-Gov

The Democratic Alliance in Gauteng has raised concerns over the provincial government’s spending on its e-panic button programme, questioning whether technology is being prioritised over the basic resources needed for effective policing. According to information disclosed in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, the Gauteng government has already spent nearly R119 million on the programme, with additional millions budgeted for maintenance, development and change management. The system is intended to connect residents to emergency assistance through a digital panic button that can be activated during emergencies. However, critics argue that many police stations across Gauteng continue to struggle with shortages of vehicles, infrastructure challenges, staffing pressures and limited resources that directly affect response times. Concerns have also been raised about accountability structures, with questions over who ultimately manages emergency response services linked to the programme and how its effectiveness is measured. Supporters of technology-driven safety initiatives argue that modern tools can strengthen crime prevention and emergency response capabilities. Critics, however, believe technology cannot replace visible policing, functioning police stations, and adequately equipped officers on the ground. The debate highlights a broader issue facing governments worldwide: how to balance investment in smart technology with investment in essential public services. At a time when Gauteng residents continue to face high levels of crime and growing concerns about safety, questions remain about whether taxpayers are seeing sufficient value from such programmes and what should take priority when public resources are limited. Instagram · Twitter