Bheki Cele, former South African Minister of Police, has recently shared that he now fears for his life after the withdrawal of his official security protection. The former minister, known for his active role in reducing crime, is now facing a new reality without state-provided security measures.
“There are prominent figures I took down who were still undergoing trial while I was serving as minister,” Cele explained. “I made quite a few enemies, and sometimes these people remind you of your past actions. You have to accept that, in the end, you’re just another human being, and anything can happen.”
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Life After Office: Cele’s New Reality Without Security Perks
Without the government-issued security team, Cele now drives his own modest car, which he refers to as a “skorokoro” – a term in South African slang for an old, rundown vehicle. His transition from luxury vehicles with official blue lights to a personal, less glamorous mode of transport underscores the sudden shift that comes with leaving a high-ranking government position.
Cele remarked on how quickly government perks, such as high-end vehicles and security details, were stripped away, comparing the change to a shift to a “different world.” He expressed the reality faced by many former officials once their term ends and government privileges are withdrawn.
Political Changes and the Impact on Cele’s Position
Cele’s departure from office followed the May 29 general elections, in which the African National Congress (ANC) experienced a significant decline in support, leading to the establishment of a unity government. This political restructuring affected several officials, including Cele, who now navigates life without the once-automatic protections afforded to ministers.
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Addressing current government officials, Cele urged them to remain mindful of the transient nature of these privileges.
“At this point, I am driving myself around in my own old car. The experience is entirely different.”