121 political killings files head to commission — Cachalia, Masemola patch up SAPS rift

Firoz Cachalia

Cape Town – Police Minister Firoz Cachalia and National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola have agreed to submit 121 political killings dockets to the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, following tensions over Masemola’s earlier decision to return the cases to KwaZulu-Natal.

The Monday meeting aimed to clarify their respective roles and restore trust in the SAPS.

Both leaders pledged to work together professionally, strengthen investigations into councillor and whistle-blower killings, and support the Commission’s work.

“The political killings task team dockets will be submitted to the Commission in the format that they require.

“This is to ensure the integrity of the dockets and enable the Commission to thoroughly investigate all the matters related to its terms of reference. Where there are matters in these dockets requiring urgent further criminal investigations or prosecution, the SAPS will advise the Commission accordingly,” a statement said.

Aording to IOL, President Cyril Ramaphosa had reportedly expressed anger at Masemola’s unilateral move, stressing the need for cooperation and integrity in handling the dockets.

Cachalia also demanded a pending report from Masemola on the task team, which was previously disbanded under suspended former minister Senzo Mchunu.

Despite criticism that Cachalia was interfering, his office defended his actions as part of his constitutional oversight role.

Masemola has also announced plans for a new specialised political killings unit in Gauteng.

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