JOHANNESBURG - National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola says he has not returned to office to avenge himself, but to focus on leadership and institutional renewal within the police service.
Speaking at the Tshwane Academy on Monday, as he returned to work following the lifting of his precautionary suspension, Masemola said the organisation’s constitutional mandate must take precedence over personal interests.
He returns to the helm after a six-month suspension, following the withdrawal of charges against him by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).
“I return to the office as the National Commissioner, determined to unite our organisation, strengthen its institutional integrity and advance our constitutional responsibility to serve and protect the people of South Africa,” he said.
“My return is not about an individual; it is about the responsibility entrusted to this office and the continuity of leadership in an institution central to our democracy.”
Masemola said divisions and mistrust within the police service could undermine efforts to build a strong institution.
“We cannot build a strong police service on divisions, mistrust or competing personal interests. We must build it on professional solidarity, ethical leadership, mutual respect and a shared commitment to our constitutional reform,” he said.
He said past events would not be allowed to distract the organisation from moving forward. While acknowledging that differences were inevitable, he said they should not overshadow the police service’s broader responsibilities.
READ | Ramaphosa lifts Fannie Masemola's suspension after charges withdrawn
“Of course, yes, where there are human beings, there will now and then be some differences. But those differences must be treated as minor, looking at the bigger picture and the bigger role that we have to play as an organisation,” he said.
Masemola also thanked President Cyril Ramaphosa for lifting his precautionary suspension.
“Throughout this difficult period, I maintained my confidence in the legal process and the principle that matters of this nature must be resolved through lawful and appropriate channels. My experience has reinforced the importance of due process,” he said.
He also expressed gratitude to those who supported him during his suspension.
“To those who stood by me when it was difficult to do so, I remain deeply appreciative of your actions. I acknowledge the past, but I will not allow the past to distract us from going forward,” he said.
Read more: 'It was a difficult journey': Masemola speaks after charges withdrawn