South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has placed Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on administrative leave with immediate effect following serious allegations levelled against him by former KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
In a nationally televised address on Sunday evening, Ramaphosa said the decision was taken to protect the integrity of the police service and ensure an impartial investigation into the claims made by Mkhwanazi, which have sparked widespread public outcry and renewed calls for accountability within South Africa’s law enforcement leadership.
“These allegations, if true, raise deeply concerning questions about the conduct of those entrusted with the security of our people,” Ramaphosa said. “I have therefore taken the decision to place Minister Mchunu on administrative leave pending the outcome of a full and independent investigation.”
To this end, Ramaphosa announced the establishment of a Commission of Judicial Inquiry, to be led by Justice Mbuyiseli Russel Madlanga of the Constitutional Court. Justice Madlanga is currently serving as Acting Deputy Chief Justice following the elevation of Justice Mandisa Maya to the position of Chief Justice.
The Commission will be tasked with investigating the veracity of Mkhwanazi’s allegations and examining broader systemic issues within the Ministry of Police and the South African Police Service (SAPS).
“This is not only about one man or one ministry,” said Ramaphosa. “This is about restoring trust in our institutions and ensuring that no one is above the law.”
While details of the allegations have not been officially confirmed by the Presidency, Mkhwanazi is believed to have implicated Mchunu in improper interference with police operations and abuse of power.
Ramaphosa urged the public to allow the Commission the space to carry out its work, pledging full cooperation from the Presidency and government departments involved.
“I have confidence in the judiciary and in Justice Madlanga’s ability to guide this process with integrity and independence,” the President said. “The Commission will have all the resources and powers necessary to uncover the truth and make recommendations to ensure this never happens again.”
Firoz Cachalia has been appointed Acting Police Minister.
The Commission is expected to begin its work within the next few days, with terms of reference and timelines to be gazetted early this week.
