Tensions mount in SAPS as President Cyril Ramaphosa returns from BRICS summit amid explosive feud between Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and KZN Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
As President Cyril Ramaphosa touches down in South Africa after attending the 2025 BRICS Summit in Brazil, all eyes are on him—not for diplomacy, but for domestic drama. The nation is gripped by the intensifying feud between Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, a storm threatening to shake the foundation of the South African Police Service (SAPS).
The Allegations That Sparked a Political Firestorm
Commissioner Mkhwanazi recently dropped a political bombshell, publicly accusing Minister Mchunu of interfering in critical criminal investigations. According to Mkhwanazi, this interference includes alleged ties between the minister and questionable business figures. The minister, for his part, has vehemently denied all accusations.
The tension has escalated rapidly, drawing public concern and government scrutiny. Mkhwanazi’s bold statements have opened a can of political worms, prompting calls for President Ramaphosa to intervene. Yet, as of now, the Presidency has remained tight-lipped, failing to confirm whether Ramaphosa has formally summoned either party for clarity.
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Mbalula Weighs In: “There Is Leadership”
Amid the growing unrest, ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has attempted to calm the waters. Speaking during a visit to the late David Mabuza’s home, Mbalula reassured citizens that the President is still at the helm.
“President Ramaphosa is leading the executive… When an angry policeman comes and says big things, do not be troubled, there is leadership,” Mbalula declared.
While meant to provide reassurance, Mbalula’s comments did little to clarify whether Ramaphosa will publicly address the issue, or take decisive internal action.
GNU Tensions: More Than Just a Police Matter
The timing of the SAPS feud couldn’t be worse for the fragile Government of National Unity (GNU). Relations between the ANC and the Democratic Alliance (DA) are already strained. Tensions reached new heights following the dismissal of DA MP Andrew Whitfield from his post as deputy minister of trade, industry and competition.
Mbalula didn’t hold back in addressing the DA’s threats to pull out of the GNU:
“You can see that they are singing the wrong songs… When they say that they want to leave, let them leave. We do not have the majority, but we are leading and we are not looking back. Ramaphosa is in charge.”
The ANC, he said, remains focused on rebuilding and renewing itself, particularly in provinces like Mpumalanga.
Avoiding Succession Talk: Eyes on the Present
Mbalula also cautioned ANC members to avoid stirring succession debates ahead of the party’s 2027 elective conference.
“Discussing this will lead to fights… If someone comes to speak about 2027, just look at them.”
This signals the ANC’s desire to maintain unity amidst internal and external pressures, though questions remain about how the party—and its leader—will handle the SAPS crisis.
What Happens Next?
Ramaphosa’s return to South African soil raises a crucial question: When will he break his silence on the Mchunu-Mkhwanazi feud? While the President is expected to deliver the eulogy at former Deputy President David Mabuza’s funeral on Saturday, political analysts believe that a strong statement on the SAPS controversy is now overdue.
Public trust in the police force—and in the government’s ability to manage internal conflict—hangs in the balance.
Until then, South Africans are left waiting, watching, and wondering whether leadership will rise to meet the moment or allow the feud to fester further.
Also read: Mkhwanazi vs Mchunu: Thoko Didiza Rules on Explosive Parliament Debate
