[ad_1]
President Cyril Ramaphosa has pledged to take decisive steps against suspended police minister Senzo Mchunu, but only once the Madlanga Commission has concluded its work.
Speaking this week, Ramaphosa said several senior police officials had already been flagged for urgent investigation and possible prosecution. However, Mchunu remains on paid special leave while the commission finalises its findings.
– Advertisement –
On the Clement Manyathela Show, presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya confirmed that the president would act — but not before all submissions before the commission are completed. He declined to disclose any findings, citing the need to follow due process.
Explosive Claims Over Disbanded Political Killings Unit
Mchunu is accused of unlawfully dissolving the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) in KwaZulu-Natal, a specialised unit known for probing politically motivated murders.
The allegations were raised by KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi and are central to both the Madlanga Commission and a parallel parliamentary ad hoc committee.
According to testimony, Mchunu ordered the immediate shutdown of the PKTT without consultation or review and instructed that 121 case dockets be removed from the unit. Five of those files reportedly involved imminent arrest instructions.
It is alleged that the move stalled active investigations and protected politically connected figures and organised criminal networks.
In a separate interview with the SABC, Magwenya acknowledged the seriousness of the matter, saying the president regarded the allegations as “serious” and “deeply concerning”.
– Advertisement –
Critics Question Ramaphosa’s Delay as Other Officials Face Swift Action
Ramaphosa’s cautious approach has drawn criticism, particularly after he moved quickly to authorise criminal investigations into senior law-enforcement officers and municipal officials implicated in corruption.
Those referrals include Major Generals Lesetja Senona and Richard Shibiri, Brigadiers Mbangwa Nkhwashu and Rachel Matjeng, as well as Sergeant Fannie Nkosi — all earmarked for immediate investigation.
Critics argue that delaying action against Mchunu amounts to a political pause rather than a legal requirement, especially after Mchunu reportedly conceded to key failures. These include not consulting stakeholders, interfering in police operations and disbanding the PKTT without conducting a review.
During the radio interview, it was argued that these actions alone compromised criminal investigations and should justify immediate removal from office.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Bheki Cele’s Police Minister Appointment A ‘Massive Blunder’, Claims Ex-Crime Intelligence Boss
Magwenya rejected claims that the president was downplaying the issue. “That is precisely why the minister has been placed on special leave,” he said.
“He is not in charge of any portfolio, including the police.”
Magwenya said the president’s approach was deliberate and constitutionally grounded.
“Before he acts and he will act, decisively, the president must ensure the commission concludes its work so that his decision is informed, fair and beyond reproach,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mchunu has denied the allegations and said he intends to return to the commission to clear his name.
Ramaphosa has insisted action will follow. The growing question is no longer if — but when.
– Advertisement –
[ad_2]
Source link
