News24 reports that former acting national police commissioner Lieutenant General Khomotso Phahlane says he agreed to ‘step aside’ from his position with immediate effect after a constructive engagement with Police Minister Fikile Mbalula.
This was revealed in a statement released on Thursday night, a few hours after President Jacob Zuma had made an announcement that Phahlane’s acting tenure had come to an end. Zuma appointed Lieutenant General Lesetja Mothiba as Phahlane’s replacement in the acting position. Phahlane congratulated Mothiba on the appointment and described him as a seasoned, experienced police officer who would lead the SAPS with integrity and vigour. Phahlane was appointed acting commissioner in October 2015, following Riah Phiyega’s suspension. He was previously divisional commissioner for forensic services. He will apparently use the extra time on his hands to focus on the allegations levelled against him by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid).
- Read this report by Mpho Raborife in full at News24
- Read too, Phahlane must explain why he shouldn't be suspended, says Mbalula, at News24
- And also, SA Policing Union urges Zuma to permanently appoint Mothiba as top cop, at EWN
Get other news reports at the SA Labour News home page