Firoz Cachalia Sworn In as Police Minister Amid Task Team Probe & Shake-Up

Professor Firoz Cachalia was formally sworn in as South Africa’s new Minister of Police on Friday at a ceremony held at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. The appointment comes at a critical juncture for the country’s law enforcement sector, marked by turmoil within the police ministry and a growing outcry over alleged criminal infiltration of the state’s security apparatus.

Ramaphosa Invokes Constitutional Powers Amid Crisis

President Cyril Ramaphosa officiated the ceremony and cited Section 91(3)(c) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, in making the appointment. “I have decided to appoint the following person as Minister for the portfolio indicated in the signed President’s Act. The said Minister-Designate, who is about to become Minister, is Professor Firoz Cachalia,” the President announced.

The oath of office was administered by Acting Judge President Aubrey Ledwaba. The ceremony marked the latest development in a high-stakes saga involving suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, whose sudden leave of absence was announced last month.

Cachalia’s appointment is widely seen as a stabilising measure amid heightened tensions in the security sector.

Judicial Inquiry into Explosive Allegations

Alongside Cachalia’s appointment, President Ramaphosa also announced the establishment of a Judicial Commission of Inquiry, led by Acting Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga. The commission will investigate alarming claims made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

Mkhwanazi accused former Minister Mchunu of colluding with criminal elements to disband the Political Killings Task Team in KwaZulu-Natal. He also claimed that a criminal syndicate has infiltrated law enforcement and intelligence structures in the country.

Ramaphosa emphasized that the commission is expected to complete its work within three months, although an extension may be considered if necessary. “I want this matter to be resolved as quickly as possible,” the President stated, adding that Mchunu is reportedly preparing to appear before the commission.

Avoiding a Ministerial Vacuum

The President addressed concerns about the unusual overlap in ministerial portfolios, with both Mchunu and Cachalia technically tied to the police ministry. “I know there is a technicality about seeming to have two Ministers in the same portfolio... but that is a matter I do believe is going to be resolved within a short space of time,” Ramaphosa told the press.

He stressed the urgency of ensuring continuity and leadership in the police service: “We can’t leave a vacuum. That’s why this appointment was essential.”

Cachalia’s First Remarks: Duty, Focus and Integrity

In his first public comments as Minister, Professor Cachalia pledged to uphold the highest standards of public service and to focus squarely on the safety and security of South Africans.

“I understand the moment the country is in and the weight of the responsibility that I have, together with others in government. I want to assure the public that their safety and security is uppermost in my mind,” he said.

Cachalia added that he would avoid commenting on controversial matters, such as the status of the Political Killings Task Team, until he has met with National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola. That meeting is scheduled for Thursday next week.

Bridging Anti-Corruption and Law Enforcement

Cachalia also spoke on his ongoing role as Chairperson of the National Anti-Corruption Council, a term that officially ends at the close of this month. He suggested that his transition to Minister of Police may empower him to act more decisively on the Council’s recommendations.

“I am now in a better position than I was as chairperson to take the recommendations of the Council forward, and I will certainly be doing so,” Cachalia declared.

He plans to request a joint session between the police management team and the Anti-Corruption Council to align implementation strategies. Furthermore, Cachalia intends to work closely with the Minister of Justice, as several of the Council’s recommendations straddle both ministries.

A Visit to KwaZulu-Natal on the Cards

When asked about a potential visit to KwaZulu-Natal and a meeting with Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi, Cachalia said the timing would depend on consultations with the National Commissioner.

“As the national Minister, I have to visit all the provinces – in what sequence and with what priorities in mind, that still has to be determined,” he said, hinting at a broader national engagement strategy.

No Ambition, Just Resolve

Cachalia firmly dismissed any political motivations behind his appointment, reiterating his focus on fulfilling his mandate with integrity.

“I am not distracted by the noise, and I am not driven by political ambition. I have been given a task. I am going to tackle the task without fear or favour, subject of course to the President’s guidance and direction as a member of the Cabinet,” he affirmed.

National Leadership and Public Expectation

Director-General in The Presidency, Phindile Baleni, extended formal congratulations during the swearing-in, praising Cachalia’s reputation for ethical governance. “We congratulate you on your appointment and wish you much success in your duties and endeavours to make South Africa and the world a better place for all,” Baleni stated.

As South Africa enters a period of intense introspection and reform within its policing and intelligence institutions, the nation now turns to Professor Firoz Cachalia to guide a department under the shadow of controversy—and steer it towards renewed trust, security, and integrity.