President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe as Acting Police Minister with immediate effect. The decision comes following the placement of Senzo Mchunu on special leave due to alleged links to corruption within the police service.
The Presidency released a brief statement confirming Mantashe’s appointment late Tuesday night. His acting role is expected to last until the beginning of August, when Professor Firoz Cachalia is set to officially assume the Police Minister post.
Temporary Leadership While Awaiting Permanent Appointment
Mantashe’s appointment falls under Section 98 of the Constitution, which allows the President to delegate the responsibilities of an absent or incapacitated minister to another cabinet member. This ensures continuity in leadership within the police ministry during a period of uncertainty.
While taking on this additional role, Mantashe will continue serving in his current capacity as Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources. This dual responsibility highlights the urgency of filling the police leadership void while maintaining oversight of critical portfolios.
President Ramaphosa’s decision aims to maintain stability in law enforcement operations during a politically sensitive transition.
Cachalia to Take Over in August
Ramaphosa previously announced that Professor Firoz Cachalia will officially take on the role of Police Minister starting in August. His appointment falls under Section 91(3)(c) of the Constitution, which permits the President to appoint up to two ministers from outside the National Assembly.
This move marks a rare but strategic use of executive discretion, likely driven by a need to restore integrity in the police ministry following corruption allegations.
Cachalia’s appointment is expected to bring a renewed focus on accountability and reform within the law enforcement sector.
Mchunu Placed on Leave Amid Corruption Allegations
Senzo Mchunu’s special leave was announced earlier this week, amid reports tying him to suspected irregularities within the police force. While no formal charges have been laid, the Presidency has moved swiftly to preserve the credibility of the ministry.
Sources close to the administration suggest that Ramaphosa acted decisively to prevent any further erosion of public trust in the police service.
The President has not ruled out future action pending the outcome of investigations into the allegations against Mchunu.
Maintaining Government Function During Transition
By assigning Mantashe to the interim role, the President underscores his administration’s commitment to seamless governance. Mantashe’s political experience and seniority are seen as stabilizing factors during this sensitive reshuffling of ministerial duties.
The short-term appointment ensures the operational continuity of the Police Ministry while longer-term leadership is prepared to take the helm.
As the start of August approaches, attention will now shift to Cachalia’s anticipated role and the reforms he is expected to implement.
