Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia addresses SAPS officers, promising stability and accountability amid leadership changes and public scrutiny.
Image: SAPS
Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia has moved to reassure rank-and-file officers that efforts are under way to stabilise the South African Police Service (SAPS), following leadership changes and mounting scrutiny.
He expressed confidence in Acting National Commissioner Lieutenant General Dimpane and the broader leadership collective, which includes Lieutenant Generals Mosikile and Senthumule, as well as Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi.
Addressing members on Thursday, Cachalia conceded that the police service was under pressure, describing it as “a difficult time” for the organisation.
His remarks come as testimony before the Madlanga Commission continues to cast a spotlight on alleged shortcomings within SAPS leadership and operations.
Dimpane has been appointed as acting commissioner following the precautionary suspension of General Masemola.
“But I want to assure you that decisions are being made in your interests, in the interests of the South African Police Service, and in the interests of our people,” Cachalia said.
Cachalia stated that the leadership team would prioritise addressing internal weaknesses, such as accountability and procurement systems. “This team will deal with the challenges being faced by the South African Police Service to improve accountability and ensure that supply chain management is handled correctly in an accountable way,” he said.
He added that greater emphasis would be placed on recognising police officers for their work, particularly those operating under dangerous conditions.
Cachalia said further interventions would be announced in the coming weeks as part of a broader plan to stabilise the organisation and rebuild public trust over the next decade. “In the coming weeks, we will make decisions to stabilise the organisation and take the South African Police Service forward in the next 10 years to restore the trust and faith of our people,” he said.
He concluded by thanking officers for their service, saying many continue to carry out “a dangerous job every day, as they are committed to the safety and security of our people.”
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