KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has ignited a political firestorm after publicly accusing senior police officials — including Police Minister Senzo Mchunu — of interfering in investigations into politically motivated killings.
During a media briefing on Sunday, Mkhwanazi made bold allegations that shook the security establishment and sparked urgent calls for accountability.
In response, Ian Cameron, chairperson of the police portfolio committee, addressed concerns about Mkhwanazi’s safety, saying the commissioner is more than capable of protecting himself.
[ Paul O’Sullivan Urges Suspension Of KZN Police Chief Over Explosive Allegations ]
“I think General Mkhwanazi is likely aware of any potential risk regarding what happened yesterday [on Sunday],” said Cameron at a peace and security cluster committee meeting in Parliament on Monday.
“He has a very competent team, from what I saw during our oversight visit to KZN a few months ago, who also assist with the relevant protection. I also think he is quite capable of defending and looking after himself.”
Cameron confirmed he had not contacted the minister following the allegations. “I did not want any form of interference, premature discussion, or anything like that,” he explained.
Cameron Demands Urgent Action and Parliamentary Debate
Shortly after Mkhwanazi’s revelations, Cameron did not mince words, stating that if the allegations are substantiated, they would “paint a troubling picture of a police leadership unable or unwilling to uphold its constitutional duty to combat crime without fear or favour.”
To address the growing crisis, Cameron revealed he had written to National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza, requesting a parliamentary debate to investigate the claims thoroughly.
“Parliament and the Presidency must ensure these claims are independently and thoroughly investigated to restore public trust and demonstrate accountability,” he urged. “South Africans deserve clear answers. Silence is not an option.”
He also emphasized that President Cyril Ramaphosa must take decisive leadership in the matter: “The commander-in-chief, the president of the Republic of South Africa, must take the lead in addressing these serious allegations involving senior SAPS management and the Minister of police.”
Ramaphosa Labels Allegations a National Security Concern
President Cyril Ramaphosa responded swiftly to the controversy, calling the matter a “grave national security concern.” He expressed serious alarm over Mkhwanazi’s public statements and the potential fallout for the country’s law enforcement credibility.
In a statement from the Presidency on Sunday, Ramaphosa underscored the need to maintain the integrity of South Africa’s security institutions and warned that the ongoing clash of accusations could have damaging effects.
“All parties to this matter are called upon to exercise discipline and restraint,” the statement read. “The trading of accusations and counter-accusations threatens to undermine public confidence and sow confusion. Furthermore, these actions damage the unity and focus of the police.”
The President is expected to announce formal steps upon his return from the BRICS Leaders’ Summit in Brazil, as the nation watches closely for a resolution to this growing scandal.
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