Sibiya confident in justice system, awaits court ruling on suspension
Suspended Deputy National Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya has expressed full confidence in the criminal justice system as he awaits the High Court’s ruling on his bid to overturn a stay-at-home directive.
Speaking to the media outside the Pretoria High Court on Wednesday, Sibiya said he respects the full bench of three judges presiding over his case and vowed to comply with the court’s decision.
"I have full trust on our criminal justice system and I respect the fact that we asked for three judges and we were given three judges. We will accept whatever outcome we get and we will comply."
When pressed on whether he felt his rights had been infringed by National Commissioner Fannie Masemola’s suspension order, Sibiya said he is restricted from commenting in detail until he presents before the Parliamentary ad hoc committee and the Madlanga Commission.
He confirmed, however, that he will share his perspective during those proceedings.
"I've been restricted to really comment, especially based on the fact that I'll be attending, presenting before the ad hoc committee as well as the commission. At this point in time, I'm not prepared to really go out of my way and make any comment to the media, pending my presentation before the ad hoc committee as well as the commission."
Asked about the 121 dockets from the Political Killings Task Team, Sibiya refrained from commenting, noting that the matter is before the courts and that the dockets remain in KwaZulu-Natal for investigation.
He also spoke about his relationship with Masemola, saying it remains professional despite the ongoing legal battle.
"The last time I met with my boss, we were on good terms. I still respect him as the National Commissioner of the South African Police Service. I’m a disciplined member of the police, and I’ll subject myself to his authority," he said.
Sibiya further confirmed his support for the work of the Madlanga Commission, in line with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s directive, despite not being present at a recent meeting between Masemola and Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia.
The High Court is expected to deliver a ruling on Sibiya’s challenge in the coming days, determining whether he will be reinstated or remain under suspension pending the outcome of the internal disciplinary process.
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