Espat’s Anti-Crime Campaign Draws Early Criticism

Just weeks into his new role as Minister of Home Affairs, Julius Espat is already facing pushback over one of his ministry’s first major public messaging efforts. An anti-crime campaign launched under his watch is drawing criticism for its use of graphic images and videos meant to show the harsh consequences of choosing a life of crime. The campaign was designed to shock, but not everyone agrees with that approach. Former Home Affairs Minister Kareem Musa says it is not a campaign he would have approved, citing concerns over the graphic nature of the material.

 

Kareem Musa, Former Minister of Home Affairs

“I would not have done it and I know that different ministers and CEOs have a different style and strategy. So, I don’t want to be extremely critical of it, because in some instances people will say they appreciate the messaging that at the end of the day you end up dead or in jail, so you should not use a life of crime. Personally, I did not like the graphic or images of it and I would not have gone with that.”

 

Reporter

“So you don’t think it was an effective form of deterrent?”

 

Kareem Musa

“For me no, but you would have to ask the public whether that was effective, but for me no.”

 

Musa also noted that he met with Minister Julius Espat and provided advise on how best to navigate the ministry.

 

Attention readers: This online newscast is a direct transcript of our evening television broadcast. When speakers use Kriol, we have carefully rendered their words using a standard spelling system.

 

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