diff --git a/voltha/leader.py b/voltha/leader.py
index e1c677a..a1d970d 100644
--- a/voltha/leader.py
+++ b/voltha/leader.py
@@ -142,7 +142,8 @@
 
         if self.reassignment_soak_timer is not None:
             assert isinstance(self.reassignment_soak_timer, DelayedCall)
-            self.reassignment_soak_timer.cancel()
+            if not self.reassignment_soak_timer.called:
+                self.reassignment_soak_timer.cancel()
 
         self.reassignment_soak_timer = reactor.callLater(
             self.soak_time, self._reassign_work)