A political firestorm has erupted within the security cluster after Deputy Minister of Police Dr Paulina Shela Boshielo, publicly criticised the disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) a unit once credited with uncovering key links in South Africa deadly web of politically motivated murders.
Speaking at a safety and governance dialogue in Pietermaritzburg on Monday, Dr Boshielo said she was deeply disappointed and concerned by the decision describing it as a step backward in the fight against political bloodshed. The PKTT formed in 2018 following a spate of assassinations in KwaZulu-Natal and other provinces, was quietly dissolved last month, sparking outrage among civic organisations and opposition parties.
I believe the matter could have been handled differently Boshielo said. At a time when communities are still mourning the loss of councillors, activists, and whistleblowers this decision sends the wrong message. It risks undoing years of hard-earned progress.
The Deputy Minister’s comments have reportedly caused friction within the police ministry as insiders claim the decision to dissolve the unit was made by senior SAPS management in consultation with the National Commissioner office. Officially the move was justified as a restructuring measure aimed at integrating PKTT operations into broader organised crime units.
However critics argue that the team’s disbandment was politically motivated, fearing it may shield powerful individuals implicated in ongoing investigations. Civil society group Action for Accountability called the decision a betrayal of justice while the IFP and EFF have demanded a parliamentary inquiry into what they termed a calculated dismantling of truth-seeking efforts.
According to sources within SAPS, several high-profile cases including unresolved killings of municipal officials and councillors now face uncertain futures as investigators are reassigned to other divisions.
Dr Boshielo stopped short of accusing anyone of interference but said the timing raises uncomfortable questions about the state commitment to combating political violence.
I joined this ministry to help build safer communities she declared firmly. When those tasked with finding the killers are disbanded, who then protects the protectors?”
As pressure mounts on the Police Ministry for clarity analysts warn that the decision may further erode public trust in law enforcement painting a grim picture of justice delayed and perhaps denied.