In a decisive statement during a nationally televised address, President Ramaphosa announced the immediate suspension of Police Minister Senzo Mchunu amid grave allegations concerning his involvement with organized crimes. He revealed that a judicial commission would be constituted to investigate claims alleging Mchunu's interference in investigations related to political assassinations and corruption within law enforcement.
Mchunu, who denies all accusations against him, stated he is prepared to defend himself and expressed respect for the president's decision. The commission is to be headed by the country’s deputy chief justice and will not only scrutinize Mchunu but will also extend its investigation to both current and former police officials, as well as members of the national executive. This move comes as public pressure mounts on Ramaphosa to take swift action regarding the high-profile case.
At 67, Mchunu is a key figure within the African National Congress (ANC) and has been speculated to be a potential candidate for leadership in the party's upcoming 2027 elective conference. The allegations originated from Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the provincial police chief of KwaZulu-Natal, who claimed Mchunu was receiving financial backing from a suspected corrupt businessman for political purposes. He highlighted how the minister allegedly orchestrated the disbandment of a task force established in 2018 to investigate political killings, claiming this was due to the revelations uncovering connections to politicians, police officials, and a drug syndicate.
Following the unit's disbandment, Mchunu stated it was no longer effective despite numerous unresolved cases, which Mkhwanazi refuted, indicating that important evidence had been mishandled under orders from the minister. He also pointed to ties between Mchunu and Vusimuzi Matlala, a businessman who was previously contracted with the police until legal troubles ensued. Documented communications and financial transactions were presented as evidence of these alleged connections.
As this story develops, South Africa remains on edge, watching how these serious allegations will unfold in the political arena.
Mchunu, who denies all accusations against him, stated he is prepared to defend himself and expressed respect for the president's decision. The commission is to be headed by the country’s deputy chief justice and will not only scrutinize Mchunu but will also extend its investigation to both current and former police officials, as well as members of the national executive. This move comes as public pressure mounts on Ramaphosa to take swift action regarding the high-profile case.
At 67, Mchunu is a key figure within the African National Congress (ANC) and has been speculated to be a potential candidate for leadership in the party's upcoming 2027 elective conference. The allegations originated from Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the provincial police chief of KwaZulu-Natal, who claimed Mchunu was receiving financial backing from a suspected corrupt businessman for political purposes. He highlighted how the minister allegedly orchestrated the disbandment of a task force established in 2018 to investigate political killings, claiming this was due to the revelations uncovering connections to politicians, police officials, and a drug syndicate.
Following the unit's disbandment, Mchunu stated it was no longer effective despite numerous unresolved cases, which Mkhwanazi refuted, indicating that important evidence had been mishandled under orders from the minister. He also pointed to ties between Mchunu and Vusimuzi Matlala, a businessman who was previously contracted with the police until legal troubles ensued. Documented communications and financial transactions were presented as evidence of these alleged connections.
As this story develops, South Africa remains on edge, watching how these serious allegations will unfold in the political arena.
