Fikile Mbalula endorses Cachalia amid SAPS reshuffle

ANC Secretary‑General Fikile Mbalula has publicly defended President Cyril Ramaphosa’s selection of Prof. Firoz Cachalia as Acting Minister of Police, citing his deep security expertise and commitment to combating corruption. The move comes in the wake of Senzo Mchunu’s suspension and growing concerns about serious crime syndicates operating within the SAPS. Mbalula described the choice as proactive and necessary to protect institutional integrity.

Why Cachalia? Expertise Over Politics

According to Fikile Mbalula, Cachalia’s legal credentials, academic rigor, and ethical reputation made him the ideal candidate to lead police transformation. He praised the Wits University law professor for possessing a “deep understanding of the security sector and a proven commitment to clean governance.” Highlighting the decision as a measured executive action, Mbalula maintained it safeguards investigations and upholds due process.

ActionSA Questions His Suitability

However, political party ActionSA has voiced reservations, pointing to Cachalia’s long-standing ANC affiliation. In a statement, spokesperson Herman Mashaba expressed skepticism that a scholar can effectively dismantle entrenched crime syndicates within the police, calling for a minister with practical, street-level leadership. They argue public confidence hinges on someone seen as an unambiguous reformer with security operations experience.

Context: Mchunu’s Suspension and Crime Syndicate Claims

Mchunu’s suspension followed explosive allegations by KwaZulu‑Natal Police Commissioner Lt‑Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who claimed a criminal network—including politicians and law enforcement officers—had interfered in politically sensitive investigations. He alleged Minister Mchunu had ordered the disbandment of special investigative units probing political killings. In response, President Ramaphosa appointed Cachalia and established a judicial commission of inquiry, chaired by Acting Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, to investigate the accusations.

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ANC’s Position: Step‑Aside Principle and Internal Tensions

While supporting Cachalia’s appointment, Fikile Mbalula defended placing Mchunu on special leave, a move seen as necessary to maintain the investigation’s integrity. Yet internal divisions within the ANC have emerged. Some party figures argue that not enforcing the step‑aside rule against all accused officials undermines the party’s ethical grounds, reflecting broader tensions over selective adherence to accountability standards.

Commission of Inquiry: Powers and Oversight

The newly established commission, led by Deputy Chief Justice Madlanga, possesses the authority to refer criminal charges and influence prosecution decisions. It is expected to deliver interim reports after three and six months, followed by a final report to key national offices. Fikile Mbalula emphasized that allowing independent oversight is vital in reinforcing constitutional democracy and the rule of law.

Opposition Response: Calls for Constitutional Adherence

Critics, including the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and MK Party, argue the appointment of an acting minister from outside Parliament breaches constitutional norms. They have lodged complaints that Ramaphosa’s move circumvents parliamentary oversight and undermines public trust. While the DA has cautiously supported the commission, it questions whether it could become another “talk shop” unless followed by swift, enforceable action.

This high-stakes political and security reshuffle could reshape public trust in policing and governance. As Cachalia enters the role, all eyes will be on how swiftly the commission translates its mandate into action, and whether South Africa’s law enforcement can emerge stronger and more accountable in its wake.