Opposition parties have welcomed the axing of Bheki Cele as national police commissioner.
But politicians from across the political spectrum voiced concern on Tuesday about the fact that his replacement, Riah Phiyega, though widely respected as an effective administrator, lacks experience in the police service.
President Jacob Zuma ignored opposition parties and security experts who have pleaded for an experienced police officer to take over the reins of the service for a change. Instead he has appointed a law and order novice to the uncompromising position as the country’s top cop.
DA MP Dianne Kohler Barnard said her party welcomed Cele’s departure – though Zuma’s praise for the outgoing top cop was “an insult to the remaining, dedicated and law-abiding members” – and “cautiously welcomes” Phiyega to the service.
“The DA remains concerned, however, that she is not a career police officer and has no experience in fighting crime. The fact that she is not a career politician is, however, a welcome departure from her predecessors and we trust that her tenure will not be marked by similar disgraceful conduct.
“The DA hopes that Phiyega’s appointment will usher in a new era for the SAPS marked by stability and effective management at the top level,” she added.
The ANC said Phiyega’s “experience in the public service and her knowledge of public policy, and her understanding of government” would come in handy in her new position.
“We also want to acknowledge the role and impact of the former commissioner of police, comrade Bheki Cele, who during his tenure as commissioner saw a decline in crime and increased visibility of public policing,” the ANC added.
The SACP, sitting after several communists were elevated to higher positions in Zuma’s freshly shuffled cabinet, also welcomed Phiyega’s appointment, saying the move would help “in stabilising leadership in the SAPS and give a much-needed boost to our fight against crime and corruption”.
The African Christian Democratic Party welcomed Cele’s departure and expressed disappointment that acting top cop Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi was not retained full time.
Freedom Front Plus MP and police spokesman Pieter Groenewald said:
“It is now the third consecutive police commissioner who has no police training whatsoever. The previous two commissioners were sufficient proof that political appointments do not work in the police.”
Political Bureau