President Cyril Ramaphosa has placed Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on immediate leave of absence following explosive allegations from KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
The decision was announced during a national address delivered by the President on Sunday evening at the Union Buildings.
Allegations of Criminal Collusion and Interference
Mkhwanazi has accused Minister Mchunu of colluding with elements of the criminal underworld and interfering with ongoing police investigations, including attempts to disband the Political Killings Task Team—a unit credited with solving hundreds of politically linked murders since 2018.
The allegations, backed by internal SAPS communications, forensic cellphone data, and WhatsApp messages, have triggered widespread public concern and political pressure.
Commission of Inquiry to Be Established
In his address, President Ramaphosa confirmed the formation of a commission of inquiry to independently investigate the claims made by Mkhwanazi.
“These allegations are serious and require urgent, transparent investigation. As such, I have placed Minister Mchunu on a leave of absence with immediate effect, pending the outcome of the inquiry,” Ramaphosa said.
The President assured the nation that the inquiry will be independent, comprehensive, and aimed at restoring public trust in law enforcement and government leadership.
What Comes Next?
While no formal charges have been laid, the inquiry is expected to begin within weeks. It will examine:
- Alleged interference in SAPS investigations
- Communications between Minister Mchunu and individuals under investigation
- The unexplained disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team
- Alleged financial links between political figures and criminal syndicates
In the meantime, an interim minister will be appointed, according to the Presidency.
Background to the Controversy
Mchunu has denied any wrongdoing but has admitted to knowing key figures tied to the investigation, including controversial figure Brown Mogotsi, who has also vowed to “take the nation into confidence.”
Mkhwanazi’s claims have sparked national debate, with political parties including the MK Party, DA, and EFF calling for swift action and parliamentary oversight.
Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for SA’s Law Enforcement
Ramaphosa’s move to sideline a key cabinet minister marks one of the most significant political responses to SAPS-related allegations in recent years. The coming weeks could determine the future of not only Senzo Mchunu’s career, but also public confidence in South Africa’s policing and justice institutions.
