‘Fix this mess’ — Cachalia thrown into chaos as new police boss

Cachalia

Cape Town – The newly appointed acting Minister of Police, Firoz Cachalia, says he brings experience and research-based leadership to the role.

Sworn in as a minister without portfolio and later assigned to the police ministry, Cachalia takes over amid controversy, with his predecessor, Senzo Mchunu, facing allegations of using the office to protect criminal masterminds.

According to EWN, despite low public confidence in law enforcement, Cachalia remains unfazed.

Drawing on his past roles as Gauteng MEC for community safety and his service on anti-corruption boards, the 67-year-old says he values reflective, informed decision-making.

“I am by nature interested in reflective decision making – you need to carefully consider the facts, learn about the issues. In every portfolio I’ve had, I’ve read widely, I’ve tried to inform myself, you’ve got to have subject matter knowledge. It helps in the leadership role you are required to carry out as a minister,” the report quoted Cachalia as saying.

Speaking soon after taking the oath of office at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Friday, the minister said his focus would be on restoring public trust in the police and improving the overall effectiveness of South Africa’s crime-fighting efforts.

“I don’t think that I have any specific fears. I understand the moment the country is in and the awesome weight of the responsibilities that I have, together with others in the government.

“I want to assure the public that their safety and security are the uppermost in my mind. That’s what I’m going to focus on. And I hope that the time that I am minister, I will be able to take the country forward,” said Cachalia.

The Democratic Alliance swiftly released a statement calling on him to take firm, urgent, and enduring action.

“The Acting Minister inherits a broken system confronted with significant challenges made even more urgent by the recent allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkwanazi.“South Africans are tired of Ministers who deliver bold speeches but fail to act. What is needed now is decisive, immediate, and lasting action, from day one,” the DA said.

Among the DA’s priorities are independent audits of senior leadership, fast-tracked reforms to the SAPS Act, transparent and merit-based promotions, and the reinstatement of internal disciplinary systems.

Article written by