Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa has urged acting national police chief Major General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi to ignore criticism on his temporary appointment.
“This is a tried-and-tested cop,” said Mthethwa in response to concerns the 38-year-old might not be able to stand in for suspended commissioner Bheki Cele.
“The fact of the matter is that we are not talking about a junior constable here.”
The minister said Mkhwanazi came through the ranks, and distinguished himself in various “key components”. These included the National Intervention Unit, Air Wing, and Public Order Policing.
“So he is not a mafikizolo [newcomer],” said Mthethwa.
He said the fight against crime would continue and the police would continue to function as efficiently.
On Monday, President Jacob Zuma suspended Cele and sacked Public Works Minister Gwen Mahlangu-Nkabinde.
Earlier this year Public Protector Thuli Madonsela found the two had acted unlawfully regarding leases for police office space.
Mthethwa said various so-called security experts and analysts had questioned Mkhwanazi’s credentials and fitness to hold office. In some instances, “faceless” senior police management had been quoted in certain newspapers.
“As the police leadership and management we will not be distracted by some negative comments,” the minister said.
“I have asked this team to keep their eyes firmly focused on the challenge that lies ahead, which is to ensure that we keep South Africans safe, nothing else.”
Mthethwa said the same people would have “moaned” if Zuma had appointed someone outside the police.
Mthethwa, Mkhwanazi and senior police management met on Tuesday to discuss the changes.
“I have urged him to remain focused on the tasks ahead; as he steers this SAPS ship with diligence.”
Mkhwanazi joined the police force in 1993 and was deployed in the public order policing unit. He was then appointed to the special task force. He was promoted to head of the task force in 2005 and given the rank of major general. — Sapa