Phahlane must explain why he shouldn't be suspended
Cape Town – Lieutenant General Khomotso Phahlane must explain why he shouldn't be suspended, said Minister of Police Fikile Mbalula on Thursday. This came as he announced the appointment of Lieutenant General Lesetja Mothiba as "interim acting" police commissioner. During the briefing, Mbalula thanked President Jacob Zuma "for his wisdom" in appointing Mothiba - who sat next to him during the briefing.
Phahlane, whose term as acting police commissioner came to an end on Thursday, is facing serious allegations which impact on his fitness to hold office, said Mbalula.
"Lieutenant General Phahlane has a right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty," Mbalula said.
The minister said he believes that Phahlane and the police will be better served if he is afforded the time to deal with the allegations against him. He will return to the post he held before but must provide an explanation on why he shouldn't be suspended.
Mbalula said he had to look at the legalities of acting against Phahlane because no one leaves without a fight.