Community Safety Portfolio Committee Calls for Answers after Withdrawal of North West Provincial Commissioner post

The Portfolio Committee on Community Safety and Transport Management in the North West Provincial Legislature led by Hon. Freddy Sonakile notes with grave concern the recent withdrawal of the advertised post of Provincial Commissioner for the North West Province by the National Commissioner of Police.

This comes despite the fact that interviews were concluded in February 2025, and that General Patrick Asaneng has been acting in the position since December 2024. Nearly a year later, the post remains vacant, and instead of finalising the appointment, the process has now been abandoned for re-advertisement.

“The consequences of this delay are serious. The Public Service Regulations and the Senior Management Service Handbook make it clear that senior management vacancies must be filled within a reasonable timeframe, usually within 6 to 12 months. SAPS has failed to comply with this requirement, undermining leadership stability in policing at a time when the North West is grappling with some of the highest levels of violent crime and policing challenges.
This matter also raises questions about the use of public funds. Costs were incurred for the interview and selection process earlier this year, yet all that investment has now gone to waste. This may amount to fruitless and wasteful expenditure, contrary to the PFMA,” said Hon. Sonakile.

The Committee has written to the Chairperson of the National Portfolio Committee on Police, Mr Ian Cameron, to request that the Minister of Police and the National Commissioner be summoned to Parliament to provide answers on:
• Why the appointment process was withdrawn after interviews were conducted;
• Whether any candidates were found unsuitable, and if so, on what grounds;
• What costs were incurred in the aborted recruitment process;
• The legal justification for keeping the post vacant and extending an acting appointment for almost a year.
“This is not about political interference, it is about oversight, accountability, and ensuring the people of the North West have stable, effective policing leadership. Our province cannot afford uncertainty at the top of the SAPS while communities continue to suffer under the weight of crime,” said Hon. Sonakile.

The Committee emphasised that it will continue to demand clarity and transparency on this matter, and will insist that North West be taken seriously when it comes to leadership in policing.
– ENDS –
Issued by the North West Provincial Legislature Media & Communications Unit on behalf of the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Community Safety and Transport Management – Hon Freddy Sonakile.
For more information or to arrange interviews with the Chairperson contact Namhla Luhabe on 0795270628.

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