Presidency rejects media story on Police Commissioner

The story in today's Independent Newspapers, (16 October 2011) alleging that President Jacob Zuma has "relieved" National Police Commissioner, General Bheki Cele of his duties, and that he is to be posted to Canada as an ambassador is a fabrication.

The story also alleged that General Cele is to vacate his office on 30 November.

The President wrote to the National Commissioner on 29th August requesting his response as to why he should not be suspended, following the report of the Public Protector on police lease agreements. The National Commissioner responded to the President citing his side of the story.  The President is considering the National Commissioner's response and that is where the matter stands at the moment.

The allegations published by Independent Newspaper products are therefore without basis whatsoever.

Statement issued by Mac Maharaj, The Presidency. October 16 2011

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