Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s explosive claims spark national security concerns as Parliament and Presidency face pressure to act.
Parliament’s police committee chairperson, Ian Cameron, has addressed growing safety concerns regarding KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, following explosive allegations made during a media briefing on Sunday.
Cameron, known for his no-nonsense stance on police accountability, stated that Mkhwanazi is fully aware of the dangers of speaking out against senior police leadership — including Police Minister Senzo Mchunu — whom he accused of interfering in investigations into politically motivated killings.
“I think General Mkhwanazi is likely aware of any potential risk regarding what happened yesterday,” said Cameron, during a peace and security cluster meeting on Monday in Parliament.
He added that Mkhwanazi, who leads a highly capable team, is not without protection and is “quite capable of defending and looking after himself.”
‘No Interference, No Premature Discussions’
Cameron clarified that he deliberately chose not to contact Minister Mchunu after Mkhwanazi’s press conference, stressing the importance of allowing due process and avoiding any perception of interference.
“I did not want any form of interference, premature discussion, or anything like that,” Cameron told fellow MPs.
This approach, he added, was necessary to preserve the integrity of the unfolding process and ensure that proper investigative channels are followed.
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Parliament Must Investigate
In response to Mkhwanazi’s damning claims, Cameron wasted no time in calling for parliamentary intervention. He confirmed that he had written to National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza, requesting a debate on the matter.
“Parliament and the Presidency must ensure these claims are independently and thoroughly investigated to restore public trust and demonstrate accountability,” he said.
Cameron further stated that if the allegations are found to be true, they paint a “troubling picture of a police leadership unable or unwilling to uphold its constitutional duty to combat crime without fear or favour.”
“South Africans deserve clear answers. Silence is not an option,” he said.
“The commander-in-chief, the president of the Republic of South Africa, must take the lead in addressing these serious allegations.”
Ramaphosa: “Discipline and Restraint Needed”
President Cyril Ramaphosa broke his silence on the matter, stating at the BRICS Leaders’ Summit in Brazil. He labelled the situation a “grave national security concern” and urged all parties involved to act with restraint.
“The trading of accusations and counter-accusations threatens to undermine public confidence and sow confusion,” the Presidency said.
Ramaphosa stressed the importance of maintaining unity and focus within SAPS and warned that the integrity of South Africa’s security institutions must not be compromised.
He is expected to announce formal steps once he returns from the summit.
A Critical Moment for SAPS and South African Democracy
Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi’s bold move has triggered a political firestorm, placing the spotlight on internal police dynamics, political interference, and the state’s commitment to law and order. With Parliament gearing up for a debate and the Presidency promising action, all eyes are now on how this will reshape trust in South Africa’s security services.
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