South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has placed Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on an immediate leave of absence following serious allegations linking him to organised crime. Speaking in a televised national address on Sunday, Ramaphosa announced the formation of a judicial commission to investigate claims that threaten both constitutional integrity and national security.
Law professor Firoz Cachalia has been appointed interim minister during the inquiry.
Mchunu, 67, denied any wrongdoing, stating his willingness to cooperate fully with the investigation. Allegations against him include interference in cases tied to political assassinations and corruption within law enforcement agencies. Ramaphosa emphasized the need for an “urgent and comprehensive investigation,” to be led by South Africa’s deputy chief justice.
The commission will examine accusations against Mchunu, as well as other current and former police officials and members of the national executive.
The president has faced mounting pressure to address the issue, particularly since the allegations were made public by KwaZulu-Natal’s provincial police chief, Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. He alleged that Mchunu received financial backing from a businessman facing criminal charges, to support his political ambitions.
Mkhwanazi further claimed Mchunu orchestrated the disbandment of a special police task force created in 2018 to investigate political killings particularly in KwaZulu-Natal. He said the unit had uncovered connections between politicians, law enforcement officials, and drug syndicates, which may have influenced its shutdown.
Although Mchunu argued the task force was no longer effective, Mkhwanazi revealed that 121 case files were allegedly withdrawn on Mchunu’s orders without approval from Police Commissioner Gen Fannie Masemola. These files have reportedly remained untouched since March, despite some containing instructions for arrests.
Among the claims is that Mchunu had links to businessman Vusimuzi Matlala, whose police contract was cancelled after his arrest for attempted murder in May. Mkhwanazi presented text messages and payment records suggesting financial ties between the two.
Mchunu, a senior member of the ruling African National Congress (ANC), has been considered a potential contender in the party’s 2027 leadership race. In his statement, he expressed respect for the president’s decision and reaffirmed his personal commitment to honour and integrity.
