WATCH LIVE | Madlanga Commission: Police boss Masemola back on the stand
Police National Commissioner, Fannie Masemola, testified before the Madlanga Commission in Pretoria.
Image: Itumeleng English/ Independent Newspapers
South Africa’s police force is once again under intense scrutiny following explosive testimony presented at the Madlanga Commission. Here are key highlights from National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola's testimony.
Masemola's Accusation Against Mchunu
South Africa’s policing leadership is currently embroiled in controversy following accusations made Masemola, against suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu. Masemola claimed that Mchunu overstepped his constitutional authority by ordering the immediate disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT), a move he labelled as a significant encroachment on his operational control.
The Role of the Minister vs National Commissioner
During his testimony, Masemola clarified the boundaries of authority within the SAPS, stressing that while the Minister of Police could set national priorities, he (Masemola) retains sole operational control. He noted: "The how — including deployment of personnel, resources, and operational decisions — is within my mandate as National Commissioner."
Lack of Consultation in Disbandment Order
Masemola lamented that the directive to dissolve the PKTT came without prior consultation or justification, marking it as a blatant violation of his operational independence. He emphasised that proper channels could have been followed had Mchunu expressed concerns.
Presidential Apathy
Masemola revealed he had directly addressed the issue with President Cyril Ramaphosa in hopes of intervention. However, he noted the lack of feedback or action from the presidency, which raises questions about the leadership's commitment to tackling politically motivated crime.
Allegations Against Deputy Commissioner Sibiya
The commission also revealed serious allegations against Masemola’s deputy, Lt-Gen. Shadrack Sibiya, who is accused of having ties to underworld figure Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala. This whistleblower testimony has intensified scrutiny on Sibiya, particularly amid ongoing investigations into politically motivated crimes.
Immediate Suspension of Sibiya
Following these grave allegations, Masemola suspended Sibiya, marking a significant escalation in the crisis within the SAPS. Sibiya's prior attempts to dismantle the KZN political assassinations task team and his recent legal struggles add to the turmoil surrounding his position.
Broader Implications for SAPS
The tensions surrounding the PKTT and Sibiya's suspension have unveiled deep divisions within SAPS leadership. With heightened scrutiny from various police figures and political entities, the challenges facing the SAPS may not only jeopardise its leadership but also impact South Africa's political landscape amid rising incidents of political assassinations.
IOL