South Africa’s Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Gwede Mantashe, has been appointed Acting Minister of Police by President Cyril Ramaphosa, effective immediately, sparking widespread discussion. Mantashe will balance both portfolios until Professor Firoz Cachalia, a constitutional law expert retiring from the University of the Witwatersrand, assumes the police minister role in August 2025, as announced by the presidency. This temporary appointment comes amid a turbulent period for the South African Police Service (SAPS), following serious allegations against former Police Minister Senzo Mchunu.
See also: Kenya Courtroom Drama: Activist @Its_Bahaa Arrested During Court Session
Mchunu was placed on special leave after KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi accused him of corruption and interference, including alleged collusion with a murder-accused businessman and disbanding a task team probing political killings. In response, Ramaphosa established a judicial commission of inquiry, led by Acting Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, to investigate these claims and broader issues of criminal infiltration within law enforcement. Mantashe’s appointment aims to stabilize the police ministry during this transitional period.
See also: Kenya's Future Built: Ruto's Internship Programme Transforms Youths in Housing Sector
However, the decision has stirred controversy. The Public Service Association (PSA) highlighted concerns, referencing the Zondo Commission’s recommendation that Mantashe be investigated for security upgrades to his home, allegedly funded by Bosasa, a company linked to state capture. The PSA argues this raises a potential conflict of interest, though Mantashe is challenging these findings in court. Public reactions on X reflect polarized views, with some users questioning Mantashe’s suitability due to past allegations, while others see the move as a pragmatic interim solution.
Mantashe’s dual role underscores the government’s urgency to address the police ministry’s challenges while awaiting Cachalia’s expertise. The appointment has fueled debates about leadership integrity and the SAPS’s ability to combat crime effectively during this interim period.
See also: (In Ghana) Fuel Price Hike: John Jinapor Accused of Lying About Dumsor Levy Impact
Comments
Post a Comment