POPCRU calls for skills audit in SAPS management following Sitole’s axing

The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (POPCRU) has called for a skills audit following General Khehla Sitole’s axing as National Commissioner. 

The union said it is concerned that the trend relating to South Africa’s post-democratic National Police Commissioners has not yielded any tangible successes. 

POPCRU CALLS FOR SKILLS AUDIT IN SAPS

POPCRU said it has noted the report into the July Unrest and is of the view that the removal of individual personalities is on its own not a sufficient enough remedy in adequately addressing the deep-rooted challenges faced by policing in South Africa.

“Since the year 2000, there have been 8 National Police Commissioners, and with 7 of them serving since 2009. Among the 8, 4 held this position on an acting basis. This has had far-reaching consequences for the SAPS in its entirety and has demonstrated the instability of an organisation that is to this day in the midst of a wider crisis. 

“There is a dire need for a skills audit within the SAPS managerial positions, which will ensure the identification of the gaps in required competencies and assist with getting the relevant interventions to take the work of the organisation to greater heights.” 

POPCRU

READ: Why do National Commissioners never finish their terms?

General Khehla Sitole’s contract was terminated after mutual consent with President Cyril Ramaphosa. The termination comes into effect from 31 March 2022. Ramaphosa said he and the commissioner agreed that the termination was in the best interest of South Africa.

Reacting to the news, the Economic Freedom Fighters said Ramaphosa fired Sitole to please Cele, whom it believes is to blame for the crisis at the South African Police Service (SAPS).

The party also said Bheki Cele and Khehla Sitole’s strained relationship had a negative impact on SAPS, particularly at the height of violent crime, cash-in-transit heists and gender-based violence.

The Democratic Alliance said if Ramaphosa is serious about starting the hard work of rebuilding trust and credibility in the SAPS, Cele should follow suit.

ALSO READ: Ramaphosa terminates police commissioner Khehla Sitole’s contract