PICTURE: X/ PRESIDENT CYRIL RAMAPHOSA
Professor Firoz Cachalia, newly appointed as acting Minister of Police, has shed light on what may have caused the delay to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s national address.
In an interview with Newzroom Afrika, Firoz said he was watching the Wimbledon final with his wife and had left his phone charging in another room when several calls from the Presidency went unanswered.
Officials eventually contacted his brother, retired judge Azhar Cachalia, and then his wife, before finally getting hold of him.
“I was ignoring the phone, actually. I’m not going to be able to do that anymore,” Firoz said recently.
The national address, initially scheduled for 19:00, began 30 minutes late.
Cyril announced that Firoz would step in while Police Minister Senzo Mchunu takes a leave of absence amid investigations into alleged corruption.
Firoz currently chairs the National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council (NACAC).
Speaking on his appointment, Firoz said he was surprised but humbled by the opportunity.
He described the task ahead as daunting but said he was prepared to tackle it, citing a lifelong commitment to public service and anti-corruption efforts.
While Police Minister Senzo has accepted a leave of absence imposed by President Cyril Ramaphosa amid serious allegations of interference in investigations and collusion with criminal elements.
“I welcome and respect the President’s decision and pledge my commitment to the process,” said Senzo.
“Honour and integrity are the virtues I personally subscribe to… I stand ready to respond to the accusations against me and account to the citizens of the Republic, fully and honestly so.”
First published by African Insider
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
Also see: ‘I welcome the President’s decision’ Senzo Mchunu bows out amid police probe