Durban community police forums (CPFs) have pledged their support for KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. 

Last Sunday, Mkhwanazi said his team had discovered a syndicate operating within the police’s higher structures. He placed scrutiny on Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and Deputy National Commissioner for Crime Detection, Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya. 

Leading up to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s address on Sunday night, Durban-based CPFs have voiced their support for Mkhwanazi. 

On the Umbilo CPF Facebook page, chairperson Calvin Thomas issued a message of unwavering support for Mkhwanazi. Thomas said the CPF stands firmly behind Mkhwanazi following his recent revelations exposing deep-rooted corruption within the country’s law enforcement and political structures.

“Your bravery in speaking truth to power, despite the risks, has reignited hope in the hearts of South Africans who yearn for integrity, accountability, and justice. We commend your unwavering commitment to protecting the people of KwaZulu-Natal and the nation at large, even when doing so demands immense personal sacrifice,” Thomas said. 

“Your actions have reminded us that leadership is not about silence in the face of wrongdoing, but about standing tall when others falter. We echo the voices across the country who have rallied behind you, and we pledge our continued support as you navigate this critical moment.”

Thomas added that the Umbilo CPF believes in Mkhwanazi’s mission, integrity and vision for a police service that serves the people, not power. 

Similarly, Malvern CPF chairperson Kevin Pillay also extended unwavering support to Mkhwanazi. 

Pillay said that in a time where the fight against crime demands bold leadership, integrity, and tireless dedication, Mkhwanazi has proven himself to be a beacon of strength and accountability. 

His approach is not only rooted in operational excellence but also in genuine care for the communities he serves, Pillay said. 

“We have witnessed his resilience in the face of political pressure, his fearless stance against internal corruption, and his determined effort to restore discipline and professionalism within the SAPS ranks. While others may waver, General Mkhwanazi stands tall, not for himself, but for the people of KZN.

“He understands that safety is not a privilege, but a right, and under his leadership, we are seeing policing that is people-centred, community-aligned, and justice-driven,” Pillay said. 

Know this: communities across this province are watching, listening, and standing in solidarity with this courageous leader, Pillay said to those who try to undermine Mkhwanazi’s efforts or distract him from his mission.

“We, the Malvern CPF, call on all law-abiding citizens, civic structures, and political leaders to rally behind General Mkhwanazi. Let us give him the space, tools, and support he needs to continue doing what he does best, protecting the people and leading with honour,” Pillay said. 

“He is not just a leader behind a desk; he is a presence on the ground, a voice for the voiceless, and a shield in our ongoing fight for peace and justice.”

Ramaphosa will address the nation at 7pm on Sunday.

thobeka.ngema@inl.co.za

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