Promising start, but will Mbalula follow through?

The refreshingly enthusiastic and engaging manner with which Minister of Police Fikile Mbalula has approached his new portfolio is commendable.It has, however, left many asking – particularly in the current climate, in which President Jacob Zuma and some of his cabinet ministers lie shamelessly in public – whether Mbalula will be a man of his word and follow through on the promises he has made.

Earlier this week, he was quick off the mark, ahead of cabinet colleagues who are new to their posts, when he presented his plan of action for the next 100 days.

Policing is an enormously problematic portfolio. It affects the entire society, with the political leadership and management always juggling various priorities in an attempt to meet the needs of their demanding stakeholders.

Mbalula spoke the language many want to hear, about things many want to see done. He acknowledged that crime in this country is unacceptably high and that there was a need to act swiftly and resolutely.