ANC Praises Ramaphosa’s Decision To Place Mchunu On Leave

ANC Endorses Ramaphosa’s Decision to Place Police Minister Mchunu on Special Leave Amid Serious Interference Allegations.

The African National Congress (ANC) has publicly expressed its support for President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to place Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on special leave, calling the move both necessary and responsible in light of serious allegations of political interference in police operations. This development comes as pressure mounts on the government to address claims that Mchunu improperly influenced police work and disbanded a crucial investigative task team.

ANC Leadership Backs Presidential Decision

ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri, in an exclusive interview with SABC News, stated that the ruling party fully supports Ramaphosa’s action, viewing it as a crucial step towards ensuring a transparent and credible investigation into the serious allegations raised by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

“This decisive action by the President demonstrates leadership and commitment to upholding the integrity of our law enforcement institutions,” Bhengu-Motsiri said. “We believe this temporary measure will create the necessary space for a thorough, impartial investigation to get to the truth of these serious allegations.”

The ANC spokesperson emphasized that the investigation must answer critical questions about the safety of South African citizens and whether law enforcement agencies are fulfilling their constitutional mandate without political interference.

Explosive Allegations Spark National Concern

The controversy stems from shocking claims made last week by Commissioner Mkhwanazi, who accused Minister Mchunu and Deputy National Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya of improperly interfering in police operations. The most serious allegation concerns the alleged unlawful disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team – a specialized unit that had been investigating politically motivated murders in KwaZulu-Natal.

According to Mkhwanazi, neither the national nor provincial police leadership had approved the dissolution of this critical investigative unit. The disbanded task team had been responsible for investigating more than 600 cases of political killings and had secured over 100 successful convictions before its sudden termination.

Potential Consequences of Task Team Disbandment

Security experts warn that dismantling this specialized unit could have severe consequences for ongoing investigations into political violence and organized crime in the province. The timing is particularly concerning given KwaZulu-Natal’s history of political violence and the approaching election period.

Political analyst Professor Sipho Seepe noted: “The allegations, if proven true, suggest a dangerous politicization of police work that could undermine public trust in law enforcement and potentially compromise national security. The President’s decision to act swiftly demonstrates recognition of these risks.”

Next Steps in the Investigation

With Minister Mchunu now on special leave, attention turns to the investigation process. Constitutional law expert Advocate Phephelaphi Dube suggests that an independent judicial inquiry may be necessary given the seriousness of the allegations and the high-ranking officials involved.

“The investigation must be conducted by individuals beyond reproach, with full powers to subpoena witnesses and access all relevant documentation,” Dube advised. “Only a truly independent process can restore public confidence.”

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Broader Implications for Governance

This development comes at a sensitive time for the ANC-led government, which has repeatedly committed to clean governance and the depoliticization of state institutions. The party’s swift endorsement of Ramaphosa’s action appears designed to demonstrate its commitment to these principles.

As the investigation unfolds, all eyes will be on whether it leads to criminal charges, further disciplinary actions, or potential cabinet reshuffles. The outcome could have significant implications for both police reform efforts and the political landscape as South Africa approaches its next electoral cycle.

The Presidency has indicated that updates on the investigation will be provided to the public as they become available, with Ramaphosa emphasizing his commitment to transparency and accountability in this matter.