Share

'Killing the evil spirit of traffic fines' - This ad pokes fun at SA's Prophet of Doom

Johannesburg - The Road Traffic Infringement Agency (RTIA) has released a campaign aimed at motorists who seek 'supernatural' methods to resolve traffic violations.

The video released by the RTIA takes a jab at "bogus prophets and traditional healers", says the organisation, to drive home the message that motorist should settle their outstanding traffic fines.

The RTIA believes its ad will give South Africans "a chance to laugh at themselves".

'I'll bless the 95 unleaded from your car'

In the clip, a motorist is seen consulting an 'Evangelist', asking for his fines to be quashed.

The Evangelist can be heard saying: "I will bless the 95 unleaded from your car. When you drink that 95 unleaded it will taste like the sweet wine of glory," a reference to the 'miracles' promised by some prophets who reportedly made members of their congregation drink petrol.

Watch the video below:


What do you think of the RTIA's new campaign? Is it effective in its message of resolving traffic fines in SA? Share your thoughts with us!


Japh Chuwe, CEO of RTIA, said: "When the advert was first presented to me, I was immediately grabbed by the satirical approach, which I find funny and a welcome ice-breaker.

"I am aware of the recent tensions around bogus prophets who have been accused of taking advantage of vulnerable people.

"It is obviously a very serious matter and we by no means undermine it, however we appreciate the satirical approach by our creative agency and we believe South Africans will get a chance to laugh at themselves."

Offensive or funny?

Taelo Lesegonyane, creative Brand Strategist at Blueprint South Africa, the agency behind the advert, says he does not believe people will be offended by it.

Lesegonyane said: "Faith and religion are a very slippery slope for any creative and one often has to look for the invisible line between funny and offensive. However, we cannot deny that there are many bogus figures who have been taking advantage of vulnerable people and the advert finds its relevance of message there.

"Ultimately, our aim is to encourage South Africans to comply with provisions of the Road Traffic Act and not live with the risks associated with outstanding traffic fines."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE