New Acting Police Minister takes oath at Union Buildings
Professor Firoz Cachalia has officially assumed the role of Acting Minister of Police following a swearing-in ceremony held at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Tuesday morning.
The appointment follows President Cyril Ramaphosa's announcement on 13 July 2025 that he intended to place Professor Cachalia in the pivotal portfolio. The designation was made in terms of section 91(3)(c) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996.
Professor Cachalia is widely regarded as a seasoned figure in public life, bringing extensive expertise spanning law, governance and public service to the position. His installation arrives at a moment widely seen as crucial in ongoing efforts to bolster the country's criminal justice system and enhance safety across all communities.
Commitment to safer communities
Speaking after being sworn in, the newly appointed Acting Minister pledged to defend the Constitution and stand behind the men and women serving in the South African Police Service.
"Professor Cachalia expressed his commitment to upholding the Constitution, supporting the dedicated members of the South African Police Service, and working with all sectors of society to combat crime and build safer communities."
The Ministry of Police indicated that it anticipates productive collaboration with a broad range of stakeholders, civil society organisations and the general public as it pursues its mandate of creating a more secure and just South Africa under the new Acting Minister's leadership.
Professor Cachalia's tenure begins during a period of heightened public concern over crime levels and policing capacity, placing significant expectations on his shoulders as he steps into the role. His background in law and governance is expected to inform a rigorous approach to the challenges confronting the police ministry.
The formal ceremony at the Union Buildings underscored the constitutional importance of the appointment, with the Acting Minister now set to take charge of the police portfolio with immediate effect.
