Picture: The acting Minister of Police, Prof Firoz Cachalia
By OBAKENG MAJE
28 June 2026 – The acting Minister of Police, Prof Firoz Cachalia said today they stand together ahead of an important operational deployment. This comes after an anticipated march organised by anti-immigrants’ groups that is set to take place on 30 June 2026.
Cachalia further said on Tuesday, South Africans in various parts of the country will exercise their constitutional right to assemble, demonstrate and express their views. He added that as law enforcement officers, their role is not to take sides in any public debate.
“Our role is to uphold the Constitution, enforce the law without fear, favour or prejudice, and ensure that public order is maintained. The responsibility that rests on your shoulders is significant. You are entrusted with protecting both the rights of those who choose to demonstrate and the rights of every other person who lives, works or travels through the affected communities.
“These are not competing responsibilities—they are complementary constitutional obligations. Let me be unequivocal, the South African Police Service (SAPS) is not deployed to prevent lawful demonstrations. We are deployed to ensure that they take place safely, securely and in an orderly manner,” said Cachalia.
He said they are there to protect life, safeguard property, prevent criminality and respond swiftly should any individual seek to exploit these legitimate grievances to commit acts of violence, intimidation, vandalism or any other offence. Cachalia said every member deployed on Tuesday must remember that their authority is derived from the law and their conduct must always remain within the confines of the law.
“Professionalism, discipline and restraint are not optional—they are fundamental to policing in a constitutional democracy. Every decision you make, every instruction you issue and every action you take must be lawful, proportionate and accountable. Treat every person with dignity and respect.
“Exercise your powers fairly and impartially. Do not be provoked into conduct that undermines the badge you wear or the oath you have taken. Equally, do not hesitate to act decisively where the law is broken,” he said.
Cachalia said criminal conduct, regardless of who commits it or under what banner it is committed, must be dealt with firmly and lawfully. He said as officers of the law, they must also remain alert to the fact that public gatherings can change rapidly.
“Good planning, clear communication, effective coordination and disciplined execution will be critical to ensuring the safety of both demonstrators and the wider public. Work closely with your commanders, remain vigilant and support one another throughout your deployment.
“The public will judge not only the outcome of Tuesday’s operations, but also the manner in which you conduct yourselves. Your professionalism has the power to build confidence in policing and to demonstrate that the rule of law remains the cornerstone of our democracy,” said Cachalia.
He said he has every confidence in the SAPS training, their commitment and their ability to execute their duties with integrity. Cachalia said the overwhelming majority of South Africans want peace, stability and safety.
“They are looking to you to provide reassurance through your presence and confidence through your professionalism. As you deploy, remember that you are ambassadors of the South African Police Service and custodians of the constitutional values we have all sworn to protect.
“Carry out your duties with courage, discipline and respect for the law. Return home safely to your families once your mission has been completed. I thank you for your service, your sacrifice and your unwavering commitment to the people of South Africa. May you have a safe and successful operation,” he said.
The Guardian 