Suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu opened his testimony at the Madlanga Commission on Tuesday after saying that during his tenure as a minister, he had never been implicated in corruption. 

“Not once,” said Mchunu, whose testimony comes amid serious allegations, claiming he may have aligned himself with criminal networks and used his political influence to protect individuals under criminal investigation.

Several witnesses, including the Police Commissioner, Fannie Masemola, and KZN Police Commissioner, Lt-Gen. Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has mentioned senior political figures allegedly meddling in investigations.

During a media briefing in July 6, Mkhwanazi said Mchunu ordered the disbandment of the PKTT and organised crime in the province.

Mchunu issued a letter to Masemola in December 2024, calling for the immediate disbandment of the PKTT.

He alleged the directive, was made under pressure from associates including controversial businessman Vuzimusi “Cat” Matlala, who has been arrested for attempted murder, and alleged political informant Brown Mogotsi.

These claims, raised by multiple witnesses during earlier hearings, prompted his temporary suspension and intensified pressure on the commission to interrogate potential political contamination of law-enforcement structures.

The commission, established to examine whether senior government and police officials manipulated policing processes for personal or political gain, has heard weeks of evidence pointing to alleged obstruction, intimidation and the possible shielding of criminal actors.

Mchunu has consistently denied wrongdoing through his legal representatives.

He also denied the allegations during his testimony at the Parliament’s Ad Hoc committee last month.

kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za

IOL Politics

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