Vincent Magwenya, spokesperson for the Presidency, confirmed the seriousness with which President Cyril Ramaphosa is addressing the allegations made by KZN Commissioner Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi against Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, stating that ‘this demonstrates the gravity with which he takes these allegations.

Ramaphosa has placed Mchunu on leave and announced the establishment of a judicial commission of inquiry into explosive allegations against Mkhwanazi.

The inquiry will look into the role of the SAPS National Intervention Unit and Tactical Response Teams in South Africa’s crime-fighting arsenal.

Reacting to Ramaphosa’s briefing on Sunday, Magwenya laid out the strict framework imposed by Ramaphosa, including a tight reporting timeline: an interim report from the commission within three months, and a final report within six.

Importantly, he confirmed that if compelling evidence surfaces during this process, it would be referred to prosecuting authorities without delay.

“The President is not shielding anyone,” Magwenya emphasised.

“There’s going to be a great deal of transparency… This demonstrates the seriousness in which he takes these allegations, the seriousness in which he regards the vital importance of subs as a crime-fighting instrument in our country.”

The allegations from Mkhwanazi have triggered national debate about political interference in policing and corruption within the ranks of law enforcement and government.

While full details remain classified for now, Magwenya confirmed that President Ramaphosa has already met with Mkhwanazi and “all relevant and impacted stakeholders” during a closed series of consultations.

“The President undertook to meet with all relevant parties — and he did. I will not get into naming individuals, but all the stakeholders that are relevant were engaged by the president,” Magwenya said.

This matter comes at a time when public confidence in the police force and broader criminal justice system remains fragile.

Political analysts say the move could redefine Ramaphosa’s presidency, long criticised for being too cautious.

The judicial commission is expected to begin hearings within weeks, until then, all eyes will remain on the unfolding political and legal ramifications.

kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za

IOL Politics 

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