Pretoria - New National Police Commissioner General Mangwashi Victoria Phiyega says she is humbled by her appointment and has called on South Africans to give her time to prove herself.
"I am indeed humbled by the appointment, as the first female National Commissioner of the South African Police Service in the 99 years of policing history of this country... On behalf of the women of South Africa I am humbled and we are ready to the take the baton," she said.
Phiyega was speaking in Pretoria on Thursday, shortly after meeting with Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa and his deputy Maggie Sotyu.
Responding to those who had criticised her appointment and particularly her lack of police experience, Phiyega pointed out that "you don't need to be a drunkard to own a bottle store".
She said she was willing to learn and called on her critics to judge her in a years' time on her capacity to learn what was required to do her job.
"I am willing to serve...I do believe I have something to give. I've had quite an illustrious career in both in the public and private sector," she added.
Phiyega noted that it was an overwhelming task that was ahead of her. "In order to succeed, I acknowledge that it is necessary to consult, listen and learn. This should be complimented by leading and acting decisively."
She assured South Africans that the fight against crime would continue and police would work tirelessly to ensure the safety of South Africans.
"Over the next three months, the focus will be on engaging with internal and external stakeholders, learning and seeking inputs and counsel, in order to ensure that we maintain the momentum already achieved in the fight against crime.
"In addition, we will be looking at how we can do better in instituting effective financial controls and general management of the resources, including improving working conditions for our members," she said.
Phiyega added that corruption was on her radar screen and that she was ready to work with those who wanted to tackle it.
The new Commissioner is also keen to improve the image of the SAPS and strengthen public confidence in the men and women in blue.
Giving some insight into her beliefs, Phiyega said she subscribed to the ISE school of thought, which stood for integrity, service to others before self and excellence.
She added that she was looking forward to wearing the blue uniform.
"Any wonderful experience comes with a challenge. It will be challenging but wonderful journey. I believe from challenges we learn, from challenges we discover ourselves and from this we discover talents that determine things going forward," she said.
Phiyega called on her colleagues in SAPS to work with her and each other adding that she was willing to work with anyone who accepted her.
Mthethwa said Phiyega would meet with police's senior management on Friday.
He appealed to people to give her the space to settle into her new role, adding that she should not be judged prematurely.
