On his final day before President Ramaphosa’s inauguration, Bheki Cele, the outgoing minister of police, expressed gratitude to South Africans and the ANC for their support.
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While not returning to Parliament, he stressed the importance of public service to his successor.
‘I thank the people of South Africa, especially my organisation, the African National Congress, and those who allowed me to serve as a minister,’ Cele said.
THANK YOU 🇿🇦
Outgoing Minister of Police, General Bheki Cele thanks the people of South Africa for entrusting him with heading the #PoliceMinistry pic.twitter.com/JVJKMYCMI0
— Lirandzu Themba (@LirandzuThemba) June 18, 2024
Lightening the mood, he joked, ‘Remember, I am just one bar below being President. They didn’t put me there, but I am very grateful for where they have placed me.’
He added, ‘It’s not about us, it’s not about positions. It’s about putting in the utmost effort, pushing the wheel forward for the betterment of the lives of South Africans. The only words I can say are thank you, South Africa.’
Cele also led a medal parade, urging officers to continue learning and serving effectively under the new administration.
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Picture: Frennie Shivambu / Gallo Images