PRETORIA - General Fannie Masemola is back at the helm of SAPS, but his return comes at a critical time for the police service, which faces allegations of corruption and criminal infiltration.
A security strategist says the national commissioner must now focus on accountability and rebuilding public trust.
Masemola says unity is paramount within SAPS.
“I return to office determined to unite the organisation, strengthen its institutional integrity and advance our constitutional responsibility to serve and protect the people of South Africa," he said.
"It’s not about an individual; it’s about the responsibility entrusted to the office for leadership continuity, which the organisation SAPS is central to our democracy in the country.”
Security strategist Andy Mashaile says Masemola faces a major challenge in rebuilding the police service and addressing questions of accountability within its ranks.
“He has the responsibility now to single out those who would want to take SAPS to the highest heights and those who do not wish to do so; he has to help them leave the organisation," he said.
As he returns to duty, Masemola says preparing for the upcoming local government elections is his first priority.
- eNCA's Aviwe Mtila reports.