Veteran Cabinet Minister Steps In Amid Turmoil at SAPS |
| Gwede mantashe has been appointed as the new Minister of police Image: ESA ALEXANDER |
President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Minister Gwede Mantashe as the Acting Minister of Police, following a leadership crisis that has gripped South Africa’s law enforcement sector. The decision was made in the wake of Police Minister Senzo Mchunu being placed on special leave as allegations of interference in criminal investigations swirl.
Mantashe, who currently serves as the Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, will now carry dual responsibilities, overseeing both the energy and police portfolios during a critical transitional period. His appointment is expected to be temporary, with constitutional law professor Firoz Cachalia set to assume the police portfolio permanently in early August.
A Strategic Move Amid Growing Pressure
The leadership shift comes as SAPS finds itself embroiled in controversy. Lieutenant-General Shadrack Sibiya, a high-ranking police official, was placed on a leave of absence earlier this week. His departure followed allegations by KwaZulu-Natal Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who accused Sibiya and others of interfering with investigations into politically linked killings.
In response to mounting public concern and political fallout, President Ramaphosa moved swiftly to ensure continuity in the Ministry of Police while a judicial commission is being established to investigate the claims. The President’s office noted that Mantashe’s appointment is aimed at ensuring “institutional stability and strong leadership” during a volatile period.
Mantashe's Political Weight Seen as a Stabilizing Force
Gwede Mantashe, a veteran of the African National Congress and one of the party’s most seasoned cabinet ministers, brings extensive political experience to the police ministry. While his background lies primarily in mining, energy, and governance, analysts suggest his political stature could help restore order within a ministry facing internal friction and public distrust.
Though his appointment raised eyebrows among some opposition parties, who argue that holding two portfolios may dilute accountability, others have welcomed the move as a pragmatic choice under pressing circumstances.
Looking Ahead: Judicial Commission and Permanent Appointment
Professor Firoz Cachalia, who is expected to succeed Mantashe in August, will not only take over the ministry but also lead the upcoming judicial inquiry into political interference within SAPS. The commission’s mandate will include investigating the restructuring of task teams probing political violence and determining whether any senior officials acted unlawfully or unethically.
Mantashe’s interim role is seen as a bridge to this longer-term solution. The Presidency has assured the public that efforts to restore integrity to law enforcement institutions will proceed without delay.
📌 Summary:
- Gwede Mantashe appointed Acting Minister of Police after Senzo Mchunu placed on special leave.
- Mantashe retains his role as Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources.
- Prof. Firoz Cachalia to assume the role permanently and lead a judicial commission.
- Move aims to maintain stability amid
- allegations of political interference in SAPS.
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