Masemola Hits Back: Police Minister's Unilateral Decision Sparks Controversy

National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola

By Mpho Dube, Editor-in-Chief of The Azanian

National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola has testified before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, revealing that Police Minister Senzo Mchunu's decision to disband the political killings task team was made without consultation.

The task team, established in 2018, had made significant progress in investigating complex cases, with 297 cases finalized and 125 dockets still under investigation.

Masemola's testimony contradicts Mchunu's unilateral decision to disband the task team in 2024. "To come to that conclusion without having this briefing, I wonder who briefed him," Masemola said, questioning the minister's decision-making process.

The controversy surrounding the task team's disbandment has raised questions about the limits of ministerial authority and the independence of the police force. Masemola's testimony suggests that the minister's directive may have been an encroachment on his powers as national commissioner.

The political killings task team was established to address the complex nature of political violence, prioritizing collaboration across multiple agencies and emphasizing accountability. Masemola said the team's cross-functional approach allowed it to leverage expertise from different sectors, making it an effective tool in combating political killings.

Masemola's testimony also touched on the issue of ministerial directives and the limits of authority. When asked if the minister could order deployments, Masemola replied, "It will depend on me and the situation on the ground." He further explained that while the minister could direct him to address a problem, telling him how to do it would be an encroachment on his powers.

The Madlanga Commission's findings could have far-reaching implications for the South African Police Service and the country's justice system. Masemola's testimony has sparked a debate about the role of politics in policing and the need for police independence.

As the commission continues its work, the nation waits with bated breath for its findings. Will Masemola's admission be seen as a sign of weakness or a pragmatic acknowledgment of reality? One thing is certain: the outcome will have significant implications for the future work of policing in South Africa.

The Azanian will watch the developments closely, providing updates and analysis as the situation unfolds. The outcome of this commission will have a significant impact on the future of policing in South Africa, and we will be monitoring it closely to ensure that justice is served and that the police force is held accountable for its actions.