From Benoni to Wits, to acting police minister

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President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the appointment of Professor Firoz Cachalia as acting minister of police on Sunday, 13 July.

Cachalia is a professor of law at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits). However, he is expected to retire from the position at the end of July. He also chairs the National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council (NACAC).

Ramaphosa’s temporary removal of Senzo Mchunu and announcement of Cachalia’s appointment surprised citizens, with many questioning the reasons behind it and whether he is the most suitable person for the job.

Ramaphosa also announced a commission of inquiry to probe the alleged infiltration of law enforcement intelligence, and associated institutions within the criminal justice system, by criminal syndicates.

WHO IS PROFESSOR FIROZ CACHALIA?

He was born on 22 July 1958 in Benoni, and his political journey began at a young age. While at university, Cachalia, along with his brother, Azhar, were arrested for distributing pamphlets to commemorate the Soweto Uprising. Both were severely assaulted and tortured during the arrest.

Just three years later, the brothers were again arrested for political activities and detained for several weeks. They were banned under the Internal Security Act and prohibited from participating in any organisations.

Despite this, Cachalia remained steadfast in the fight against apartheid. According to South African History Online, he held various leadership positions in anti-apartheid organisations. He played a leading role in the Convention for a Democratic South Africa negotiations.

Cachalia also worked with the committee that drafted the first versions of the country’s constitution. In addition, he held leadership positions in the United Democratic Front (UDF), African National Congress (ANC) and the South African Communist Party (SACP) and private sectors.

CACHALIA COMMITTED TO FIGHTING CORRUPTION

In 2022, Ramaphosa appointed a nine-member council led by Cachalia. The Presidency described the NACAC as a multi-sectoral partnership to fight against corruption, fraud and other criminality.

Last year, the NACAC chairperson released some of the council’s proposals for Ramaphosa. These included the ability to investigate criminal corruption when it is discovered.

CACHALIA EARNS SUPPORT

While the road ahead seems bumpy, the NACAC chairperson has garnered some support. Chairperson of the National Assembly’s Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron, described Cachalia’s appointment as a commendable move.

He said it was a step forward in restoring public trust, adding that Cachalia is competent, credible, and serious about good governance. Cachalia will serve as acting police minister from 1 August.