Last week, the former acting commissioner left his position amid an investigation by police watchdog Ipid into alleged tender irregularities amongst the things.
President Jacob Zuma subsequently appointed Lesetja Mothiba as acting commissioner.
Mbalula says there needs to be stability in the police service.
“With regard to Kgomotso Phahlane, we took the decisions that we had to take because we need stability. It is not in the interest of everyone continuing in their position given what is surrounding him. So we asked him to step aside.”
