South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has placed Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on immediate leave following serious allegations linking him to organised crime, political interference, and obstruction of justice.
In a national address on Sunday evening, Ramaphosa announced the establishment of a judicial commission of inquiry to investigate the claims, describing them as threats to the Constitution and national security.
“These allegations, which include interference in investigations into political killings and corruption within our law enforcement agencies, call for an urgent and comprehensive investigation,” the President said.
Ramaphosa appointed prominent legal scholar, Professor Firoz Cachalia, as interim Minister of Police pending the outcome of the inquiry, which will be chaired by the Deputy Chief Justice. The probe is expected to examine not only Mchunu’s role but also the conduct of current and former police officials and members of the national executive.
The allegations were triggered by explosive public remarks made last week by KwaZulu-Natal provincial police commissioner, General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. He accused Mchunu of having financial ties with controversial businessman Vusimuzi Matlala and claimed that the minister used those links to pursue personal political ambitions.
Mkhwanazi further alleged that Mchunu was behind the disbandment of a special task force investigating political killings in KwaZulu-Natal in 2018. According to him, the unit was nearing breakthroughs implicating high-profile figures connected to a drug syndicate when it was abruptly shut down on Mchunu’s orders—without clearance from the national police commissioner, General Fannie Masemola.
The commissioner also disclosed that 121 sensitive case files, including several with active arrest warrants, were removed from the unit and have been left untouched at police headquarters since March.
In a statement issued Sunday night, Minister Mchunu denied any wrongdoing and said he welcomed the president’s decision. “I am ready to respond to the accusations. Honour and integrity are the virtues I personally subscribe to,” the 67-year-old said.
Mchunu, a senior figure in the ruling African National Congress (ANC), has long been considered a potential candidate for the party’s top leadership ahead of the 2027 elections. Political analysts warn that the scandal could have far-reaching implications for the ANC’s internal cohesion and public trust in government institutions.
Businessman Vusimuzi Matlala, central to the controversy, had previously secured a high-value contract with the police before his arrest for attempted murder in May. Commissioner Mkhwanazi said investigators had obtained text messages and payment records directly linking him to Mchunu.
The revelations have drawn widespread outrage and renewed scrutiny of the police service, with civil society groups and opposition parties demanding transparency and structural reform.
President Ramaphosa assured the public that the inquiry’s findings would be released in full and emphasized the need to “restore integrity to our institutions.” While opposition leaders welcomed the probe, they also urged the government to guard against political interference during the investigation.
