Who Is Firoz Cachalia? Meet South Africa’s New Acting Police Minister

South Africa recently experienced a key change in police leadership. President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed Firoz Cachalia as the new acting Minister of Police after serious allegations surfaced against the former minister. This article introduces Firoz Cachalia, outlines his background, and explains what his appointment means for the country.

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Early Life and Anti-Apartheid Activism

Firoz Cachalia was born in Benoni, Gauteng, in 1958. He became deeply involved in the anti-apartheid movement during his student years at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits). Throughout the late 1970s and 1980s, he actively participated in student politics and the United Democratic Front. Authorities detained and banned him multiple times under apartheid security laws. His early commitment to justice and equality shaped his future career in law and public service.

Academic and Professional Career

Cachalia holds a Bachelor of Arts, an LLB, and an LLM from the University of Michigan. He began his legal career representing the Transvaal Indian Congress during the negotiations to end apartheid. Later, he shifted to academia and became a Professor of Law at Wits University. He also directed the Mandela Institute for Human Rights. His work in law and governance earned him respect for his integrity and expertise in legal and anti-corruption matters.

Political and Governance Experience

Cachalia served as a Member of the Gauteng Executive Council from 2004 to 2010. During this time, he held the position of MEC for Community Safety, where he worked on important crime-fighting reforms. He also briefly managed the Economic Development portfolio. Beyond provincial government, he held governance roles such as a non-executive director of the South African Reserve Bank and served on councils of Wits University, the Mahatma Gandhi Trust, and the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation. Since 2022, he has chaired the National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council, emphasizing his dedication to transparency and good governance.

Appointment as Acting Police Minister

President Ramaphosa appointed Firoz Cachalia as acting Minister of Police after allegations of criminal collusion and political interference surfaced within the police service. The former minister, Senzo Mchunu, took special leave while a judicial commission of inquiry investigates. Cachalia will assume the role after retiring from Wits in August. Many view his appointment as a step toward restoring public confidence in the police and justice system. Civil society and anti-corruption groups have praised his clean record and experience.

Challenges and Priorities Ahead

Cachalia recognizes the difficult circumstances surrounding his appointment but commits to serving diligently. He plans to focus on improving police effectiveness in tackling crime that harms communities, such as drug offenses, violent crime, and organized crime. South Africa faces a crisis of confidence in law enforcement, so Cachalia’s leadership will play a crucial role in driving reforms and rebuilding trust in the police ministry.