Dear Editor
Incoming Acting Minister of Police, Prof Firoz Cachalia has a mammoth task ahead of him, as he is set to take the reins of the crumbling Police Service.
The DA sets down key “mission-critical” expectations for this incoming Minister, on which he cannot fail.
Trust in the police is at an all-time low, and SAPS remains plagued by political interference, mismanagement, and systemic corruption.
SAPS Detectives are overwhelmed, police stations are severely under-resourced, and key leadership positions are either vacant, suspended, or compromised.
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 sets Cachalia a clear and unambiguous challenge: Start delivering from today!
The DA expects the following urgent reforms for the Acting Police Minister to implement, if he is to do good for the people of South Africa:
- Implement comprehensive and independent audits of senior SAPS leadership to restore integrity and accountability.
- Roll out the SAPS structure signed in May 2025 across all levels. The lack of structural implementation since 1995 has led to misaligned deployments and poor service delivery.
- Update and review the SAPS Act in full consultation with oversight bodies, unions, and civil society. This process must be fast-tracked as a legislative priority.
- End long, paid suspensions by finalising disciplinary cases swiftly. Promotions must be transparent, merit-based, and free from political interference, with independent oversight and a clear annual cycle for lower ranks.
- Bring back dedicated internal disciplinary units to restore discipline, uphold professional standards, and address misconduct swiftly and effectively within the ranks.
- Reinforce merit-based appointments through independent oversight and professional criteria.
- Clearly separate operational and support roles. Place support staff under the Public Service Act and sworn members under the SAPS Act to align mandates with budgets.
Acting Minister Cachalia has an opportunity to take a different path and rebuild public trust in the police service, starting today.
The DA stands ready to support sincere and meaningful efforts to professionalise SAPS, strengthen oversight, and implement lasting structural reform.
The safety of South Africans depends on a Police Minister who acts, and does not just talk.
Regards
Ian Cameron MP
DA Spokesperson on Police