Advocate Dali Mpofu has argued that it was illegal for President Cyril Ramaphosa to have put Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on special leave and appoint Professor Firoz Cachalia to act in his position.

Ramaphosa announced Mchunu’s special leave earlier this month in response to allegations made by KZN Police Commissioner, Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi about corruption between members of the judiciary and public office holders.

[WATCH]
Adv Dali Mpofu says the president doesn’t have the power to put a minister on leave of absence, only to appoint or dismiss one. pic.twitter.com/aLI6LOrOM6

— SABC News (@SABCNews) July 30, 2025

Mpofu, representing former President Jacob Zuma in the Constitutional Court, says that while the Constitution allows for the President to appoint two ministers from outside the National Assembly, the clause does not make allowance for an acting minister.

“This whole maneuver is about how I save my friend and ensure that he has a salary for 3-5 years. God knows how long he has been doing nothing but keeping the drivers and the bodyguards. The law is very clear that if you want Professor Cachalia, then you must dismiss Minister Mchunu,” adds Mpofu.