Former South African Revenue Service (SARS) commissioner Edward Kieswetter has been appointed to chair a newly established government advisory panel tasked with driving reforms within the South African Police Service (SAPS).
The panel was created in response to damning revelations emerging from the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, which has been investigating deep-rooted challenges within policing structures, including allegations of corruption, political interference, operational failures and declining public trust in law enforcement institutions.
Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia said the advisory panel will play a critical role in supporting government’s broader efforts to rebuild and modernise SAPS. According to Cachalia, the panel will advise both himself and Acting National Police Commissioner on the implementation and progress of the SAPS “reset agenda”, as well as on recommendations flowing from the Madlanga Commission.
Kieswetter’s appointment is seen by some analysts as a strategic move, given his reputation for institutional reform and governance during his tenure at SARS, where he was credited with helping restore credibility and operational efficiency after years of instability linked to state capture.
Minister Cachalia emphasised that government cannot afford to delay urgent reforms while awaiting the Commission’s final report, expected in August. He noted that the systemic weaknesses requiring intervention have already become evident through testimony and findings presented thus far.
The SAPS reset agenda is expected to focus on strengthening accountability, improving investigative capacity, addressing corruption within police ranks, and restoring public confidence in policing institutions amid rising concerns over crime and safety across the country.
