JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed a new acting Minister of Police, with Professor Fikile Mbalula’s tenure as a significant point of contention. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have challenged the legality of placing Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Sihle Zikalala on special leave, arguing Ramaphosa lacked the authority.
Questions surround Cachalia’s interim police role
ActionSA has voiced concerns regarding the suitability of Advocate Nqoba Cachalia to serve as acting Minister of Police. This comes as Mchunu, the Minister of Electricity, remains on special leave.
The EFF contends President Ramaphosa overstepped his powers by placing Senzo Mchunu on leave and appointing an acting minister.
- The EFF is questioning the president’s authority to place Minister Senzo Mchunu on special leave.
- ActionSA has raised concerns about Advocate Nqoba Cachalia’s suitability to act as Minister of Police.
- Parliamentary committees are set to scrutinize claims made by Themba Mkhwanazi.
- Minister Mchunu’s special leave is being viewed by some as “ANC business as usual.”
Legality of Mchunu’s Leave Questioned
The EFF’s lawyer stated that President Ramaphosa is not empowered to place Minister Senzo Mchunu on leave. This legal challenge casts a shadow over the recent appointments and the underlying reasons for Mchunu’s special leave. The party argues that such a move is outside the president’s constitutional purview.
Cachalia’s Appointment Under Scrutiny
Meanwhile, ActionSA has publicly expressed its reservations about Advocate Nqoba Cachalia’s interim appointment to lead the police ministry. The organization is questioning his qualifications and whether he is the right person for such a critical role, especially given the current climate.
Parliament to Investigate Claims
In a separate but potentially related development, parliamentary committees are preparing to meet. Their agenda includes outlining a strategy to investigate claims made by Themba Mkhwanazi. The specifics of these claims were not detailed in the provided information.
Mchunu’s Leave Deemed “Business as Usual”
Despite being placed on special leave, the situation involving Minister Senzo Mchunu is being characterized by some observers as typical “ANC business as usual.” This suggests a belief that the internal party dynamics are at play, overshadowing the formal administrative processes.
The unfolding situation highlights a period of significant political and administrative maneuvering within the government, with key ministries facing scrutiny and interim leadership.
