Professor Firoz Cachalia has officially taken the reins as Acting Minister of Police following the suspension of Senzo Mchunu, who faces allegations of political interference in ongoing crime investigations.
In his first public statement since the appointment, Cachalia pledged to prioritise public safety, professional conduct, and institutional integrity. He stated that he would refrain from commenting on the controversial Political Killings Task Team until he meets with National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola on Thursday.
The change in leadership comes at a tense time for the ministry, following accusations from KwaZulu‑Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. The commissioner has alleged that Mchunu and other senior officials disbanded the Political Killings Task Team after it began investigating a high-profile tender scandal.
Responding to mounting public concern, Cachalia confirmed that the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry—tasked with reviewing the police ministry’s leadership structure—would complete its work within three months. He said President Cyril Ramaphosa had directed that the commission expedite its process to avoid confusion surrounding the ministry’s dual leadership.
In an interview with Weekend Argus, Cachalia described his appointment as “unexpected,” but said it was a responsibility he accepted wholeheartedly.
“I have been given a task. I am not driven by political ambition,” he stated.
Cachalia is expected to step down as chairperson of the National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council by the end of August to focus fully on his new ministerial role.
Addressing policing philosophy, he stressed a commitment to intelligence-led investigations over forceful rhetoric. Referring to past abuses, he distanced himself from slogans such as “skop, skiet en donner” and affirmed that law enforcement must operate within the law.
Cachalia also plans to visit KwaZulu‑Natal in the coming weeks to meet directly with Commissioner Mkhwanazi and assess the challenges facing the provincial police leadership.
As the political and legal fallout continues, observers say all eyes will be on Cachalia as he attempts to restore credibility to a ministry under growing scrutiny.
