President Cyril Ramaphosa suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu effective immediately on Sunday. This follows serious corruption allegations made last week by a provincial police chief. The minister’s suspension arrived after a week of intense public speculation.
Ramaphosa, addressing the nation, announced a Judicial Commission of Inquiry. This body will investigate the alleged criminal activities. The commission will scrutinize senior officials who may have aided corruption. Its reports are expected within three and six months.
The President emphasized the need to protect the integrity of law enforcement agencies. South Africa faces endemic corruption challenges. Mchunu, however, vehemently rejects the allegations as baseless insinuations.
The accusations stem from KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. On July 6, Mkhwanazi alleged Mchunu received illicit payments from a corruption suspect. He also claimed Mchunu dismantled a task force investigating politically connected killings.
Mkhwanazi, who announced a criminal investigation into the minister, faces scrutiny himself. He is reportedly under investigation regarding a bulletproof-vest contract.
Professor Firoz Cachalia has been appointed as interim police minister. The scandal highlights South Africa’s ongoing struggle with systemic corruption, a narrative woven into the nation’s fabric.