In a significant move, South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa has suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and announced a judicial inquiry into serious allegations of his involvement in organised crime, political corruption, and interference in law enforcement investigations. Mchunu denies the allegations and expresses willingness to cooperate with the inquiry.
South Africa’s Police Minister on Leave Amid Serious Organised Crime Allegations
South Africa’s Police Minister on Leave Amid Serious Organised Crime Allegations
President Cyril Ramaphosa orders an investigation into Police Minister Senzo Mchunu following claims of corruption and links to political killings.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has placed Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on "leave of absence," following serious allegations linking him to organised crime. During a live address to the nation on Sunday, Ramaphosa announced that a judicial commission would be established to investigate claims, which are said to undermine the constitution and jeopardize national security.
He also appointed law professor Firoz Cachalia to serve as the interim police minister during this tumultuous period. Mchunu has firmly denied any wrongdoing through a statement, asserting his readiness to address the accusations levied against him.
The gravity of the allegations includes claims of Mchunu's interference in probes concerning political murders and corruption within law enforcement. Ramaphosa emphasized the urgency of the matter, asserting the need for a thorough investigation. The commission, to be led by the country's deputy chief justice, will look into not only Mchunu but also past and current police officials, along with members of the national executive.
The move comes amid escalating public pressure on Ramaphosa to act decisively regarding this high-profile situation. Mchunu, aged 67, is a notable figure within the ruling African National Congress (ANC) and has been speculated to aim for a leadership role in upcoming elections.
In his statement, Mchunu expressed his respect for the president's decision, emphasizing values of honour and integrity. The allegations first emerged from KwaZulu-Natal provincial police boss Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who accused Mchunu of financially benefiting from a businessman linked to criminal activities and of improperly dismantling an investigative unit focused on political assassinations.
Mkhwanazi described how this unit, established in 2018, was disbanded under Mchunu's orders despite having made findings implicating influential politicians, police, and business people involved with drug cartel syndicates. He alleged that over 120 unresolved case files were improperly handled following the disbandment.
The situation continues to evolve as the investigation unfolds, raising significant questions about the integrity of those at the helm of South Africa's law enforcement apparatus.
