South African DJ and producer Mbongeni Ndlovu, better known as Oscar Mbo, has added his voice to the growing wave of frustration over government inaction on crime and corruption – this time triggered by President Cyril Ramaphosa’s much-anticipated national address on Sunday, July 13.

Ramaphosa’s speech followed explosive claims by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who last week revealed the existence of a sophisticated criminal syndicate allegedly infiltrating the highest levels of South Africa’s law enforcement, intelligence and political structures. 

Among the allegations: interference in sensitive police investigations, collusion with murder accused business figures and protection of drug cartels involving police, metro officers, prosecutors and even members of the judiciary.

In his address to the nation, President Ramaphosa acknowledged the gravity of these claims, saying they “threaten to undermine the confidence of South Africans in the ability of the South African Police Service to protect them and to fight crime and corruption effectively.” 

He announced the establishment of a judicial commission of inquiry led by Acting Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, with broad powers to investigate infiltration of the criminal justice system, recommend suspensions, and pursue criminal prosecutions.

However, many South Africans were left deeply unimpressed – among them, Mbo, who took to Facebook to share his disappointment.

“Remember such instances when it’s time to vote,” he wrote pointedly, urging fans and fellow citizens not to forget how leadership has handled such urgent matters.

When a follower warned that speaking out might jeopardise his international music bookings, Oscar didn’t mince his words.

“F#ck all of that. I don’t make money from music entirely. Right now, every single South African’s life is in serious danger, yet things are being treated as if it’s nothing.”

He continued: “We need to speak on these things and spread awareness of our lack of leadership in this country with no fear or favour.

If the people at the top, who are powerful, can’t be protected, what happens to a normal citizen? What’s the future of our kids looking like if the future is bleak as it is? Don’t tell me about gigs, we have serious problems.”

Mbo’s blunt response echoes the sentiments of many South Africans who believe that establishing yet another commission, no matter how well-intentioned, falls short of the decisive, immediate action needed to dismantle organised crime and protect ordinary people.

As the commission prepares to get underway, with interim reports expected within three to six months, voices like Mbo’s serve as a reminder that citizens are no longer willing to sit quietly while the safety and future of their country hang in the balance. 

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