The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has escalated its criticism of President Cyril Ramaphosa by filing a motion of no-confidence, citing his “failure” to fire Police Minister Senzo Mchunu amid serious allegations of interference in policing affairs.
Although Ramaphosa placed Mchunu on special leave pending the outcome of a judicial commission of inquiry, the MK Party believes the move falls short of accountability.
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To temporarily fill Mchunu’s role, law professor Firoz Cachalia was appointed as acting police minister—despite not being a member of Cabinet.
The MK Party has challenged this decision in the Constitutional Court, arguing in court documents that the President’s actions were “irrational, invalid and inconsistent” with the Constitution and his oath of office.
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MK Party Slams President for Missing Constitutional Deadline
The controversy deepened when Ramaphosa allegedly missed a July 22 deadline set by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo to file a legal response regarding the legality of Mchunu’s leave and Cachalia’s appointment.
“This is clear defiance of the directives issued by the chief justice,” said MK Party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela. “This latest move by Ramaphosa raises significant constitutional questions and concerns about transparency, accountability and his leadership.
“The failure to respond also undermines the integrity of the judiciary as well as the public’s right to answers regarding the allegations made by Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.”
Calls for Accountability Grow Amid Broader Leadership Criticism
The MK Party has also notified National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza of its intention to formally table the motion of no-confidence, arguing that “the nation has lost confidence” in President Ramaphosa’s leadership.
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During a media briefing on Tuesday, MK Party parliamentary chief whip Colleen Makhubele pointed to what she called selective enforcement in Cabinet dismissals.
Referring to the recent firing of Nobuhle Nkabane as higher education minister, Makhubele said: “She was an easy and soft target, a sacrificial lamb to the GNU altar. Mchunu should have been fired in the same breath. This is a clear act of cowardice and a decisive moment by the president.”
President Ramaphosa has indicated he will oppose the MK Party’s legal application and is expected to file his response in court before the end of Wednesday.
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