By OBAKENG MAJE
22 September 2025- The United Democratic Movement (UDM) said it has noted with deep concern the alarming rise in drunken driving cases across South Africa. The UDM said in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) alone, 93 motorists were arrested in a single weekend, bringing the total number of arrests since 15 August to 293.
The acting Secretary General of the United Democratic Movement (UDM), Zandile Phiri said these included 33 arrests in Kokstad, 24 in Pietermaritzburg and 16 in Ladysmith. Phiri said these figures are a stark reminder that reckless behaviour on the roads continues to endanger lives.
“This is not unique to KZN. In June, the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department reported 226 motorists arrested in a single week for driving under the influence. In the Western Cape, between 30 June and 6 July, 23 people lost their lives in road crashes while 57 motorists were arrested for drunk driving in that same week.
“These reports illustrate that drunk driving is not a provincial problem but a national crisis that requires urgent coordinated intervention.
As the festive season approaches, a period when alcohol consumption, travel and road use are at their highest, we must confront the devastating consequences of drunk driving,” said Phiri.
She said every arrest represents a life that could have been lost, a family that could have been shattered or a community left grieving. The UDM commends the dedication of law enforcement officers across the provinces, who have prevented potential tragedies.
“However, the numbers show that more must be done. The UDM therefore calls for stronger enforcement and visible policing on all major routes and in high-risk areas. Increased breathalyser checks, patrols and roadblocks, particularly during peak travel periods. Expanded public awareness campaigns that highlight the devastating human cost of drunk driving are needed.
“Greater community participation to support road safety initiatives and report reckless behaviour is needed. We also make a direct appeal to all South Africans to stop this behaviour before more innocent lives are lost. Do not drink and drive. Choose responsibility over recklessness. Protect yourself, your loved ones and every other road user,” said Phiri.
She said South Africa cannot afford to normalise drunk driving. Phiri said the safety of law-abiding motorists, passengers and pedestrians depends on a collective effort to change behaviour, enforce accountability and protect lives on their roads.
The Guardian 