Masemola Testimony at Madlanga Commission
Masemola Takes the Stand at Madlanga Commission
National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola appeared before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry on September 22, 2025, to testify about alleged interference in SAPS operations. He accused Police Minister Senzo Mchunu of encroaching on his constitutional mandate.
Key Accusations: Minister vs Commissioner Roles
Masemola told the commission that the minister may set national policing priorities. However, he said the how of policing—deployment, operations, decision making—must remain under the control of the National Commissioner.
In December 2024, Mchunu allegedly ordered the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) to be disbanded immediately. Masemola called that instruction a “total encroachment,” because it bypassed required consultations.
Lack of Consultation: A Central Theme
Masemola argued that the directive to dissolve the PKTT came without prior discussion with provincial or operational structures. He said that decisions of that kind should involve SAPS leadership at multiple tiers, including provincial commissioners.
Past examples contrast with the recent case. For example, in 2017 a similar task team was disbanded only after consultation with directors general and commissioners.
Implications for SAPS Independence and Justice
Masemola’s testimony highlights tension between policy authority (minister) and operational independence (commissioner). If ministers can order disbandments without process, SAPS risks losing public trust.
Moreover, the PKTT investigates political killings, especially in KwaZulu-Natal, where violence linked to politics has increased. The sudden disbandment order could delay or derail many investigations.
Masemola’s Call for Reform
During his testimony, Masemola said the Madlanga Commission offers a chance to reflect on SAPS’s challenges. He pledged that SAPS must respond to allegations, promote transparency, and protect its operational mandate.
He also suspended his deputy, Lt-Gen Shadrack Sibiya, amid allegations that the deputy had links with underworld figures and may have tried to undermine PKTT functions.
Conclusion
In summary, Fannie Masemola’s testimony at the Madlanga Commission places clear emphasis on protecting the operational independence of SAPS. His accusations against Minister Senzo Mchunu center on a breach of authority when the minister ordered the disbandment of the PKTT without consultation. Going forward, many await whether the commission’s findings will strengthen safeguards for SAPS, ensure stronger oversight, and uphold accountability.
