In the intricate world of South African law enforcement, a complex drama is unfolding, one that involves power struggles, accusations of corruption, and the potential dismantling of crucial investigative units. At the heart of this narrative is Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Provincial Police Commissioner, who has found himself at odds with powerful figures within the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the government.
The story begins with a web of relationships and rivalries among key players in the SAPS. Former police minister Bheki Cele, affectionately known as 'The General,' maintains a strong presence in police politics, even after leaving his post. Cele played a significant role in the appointment of the current National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, following a disagreement with his predecessor, Khehla Sitole.
However, Masemola's alleged closeness to Cele has created friction with the current Police Minister, Senzo Mchunu, who reportedly feels undermined by Masemola. Sources suggest that Mchunu believes Masemola is still loyal to Cele, even after Cele's departure from the ministry. Adding another layer to this complex dynamic, Mchunu is said to be close to Masemola's deputy, Shadrack Sibiya, potentially positioning Sibiya as a successor to Masemola.
Amidst these power plays, General Mkhwanazi has emerged as a central figure, particularly due to his role as the convenor of the political killings task team, a unit established during Cele's tenure to investigate political assassinations, many of which occur in KZN. Mkhwanazi's relationship with Masemola has been strengthened by Masemola's support for this task team.
However, Mkhwanazi's outspokenness and accusations against Mchunu have put him in a precarious position. Mkhwanazi has publicly accused Mchunu of interfering with police operations and attempting to protect criminals being pursued by the task team. He has also stated that he does not report to politicians, a statement that Mchunu reportedly views as defiance of his authority.
Adding to the intrigue, General Mkhwanazi boasts an impressive educational background, making him one of the most educated police officers in South Africa. His credentials include a B-Tech Degree in Policing, a National Diploma in Police Administration, an MBA from the University of JOHANNESBURG, and an LLB degree, making him an admitted attorney of the High Court of South Africa. He also possesses specialized training in counter-terrorism, tactical response, and bomb disposal. His extensive professional experience includes serving as the Head of the Special Task Force (STF), Divisional Commissioner for Human Resource Development, Acting National Commissioner of Police, and currently, the Provincial Commissioner for KZN.
Mkhwanazi's career has been marked by both achievements and controversies. In 2011, he was appointed Acting National Police Commissioner by then-President Jacob Zuma, following the departure of General Bheki Cele. However, he was later removed from this position and replaced by General Ria Phiega. Subsequently, Mkhwanazi served as the National Divisional Commissioner of Special Operations until 2018, before being appointed as the Provincial Commissioner of KZN.
Adding another layer of complexity, Suspended Crime Intelligence Unit head Dumisani Khumalo, who faces allegations of fraud and corruption, is reportedly close to Mkhwanazi and Masemola. Khumalo has allegedly refused to report to Sibiya, further highlighting the divisions within the SAPS. Khumalo's alleged extravagant lifestyle, including residing in an expensive hotel apartment in Durban paid for by the KZN provincial SAPS, has also raised eyebrows.
The situation has reached a boiling point, with President Cyril Ramaphosa placing Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on special leave and appointing law professor Firoz Cachalia as acting minister of police. This decision followed Mkhwanazi's explosive allegations regarding a criminal syndicate allegedly operating within law enforcement and intelligence structures.
Opposition parties have strongly criticized Ramaphosa's actions. The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) has condemned the appointment of Cachalia, arguing that it is unconstitutional.
The E.F.F has also expressed outrage, arguing that Mchunu should have been removed from office entirely rather than placed on special leave. They further allege that Mchunu played a key role in dismantling an elite SAPS investigative unit that had secured numerous convictions.
Amidst the political turmoil, General Mkhwanazi has become a symbol of anti-corruption for many South Africans. His accusations against Mchunu and Sibiya have resonated with the public, who are increasingly concerned about corruption within the government and law enforcement. Mkhwanazi's claim that the political killings task team in KZN was deliberately disbanded and that sensitive case dockets implicating high-ranking figures were concealed has fueled public anger.
Mkhwanazi's assertion that a sophisticated network is shielding individuals involved in political killings, CIT heists, the construction mafia, and corrupt procurement networks has further solidified his image as a fearless crusader against corruption. His unwavering stance and his declaration that he is "combat ready" to defend the integrity of the badge, even at the cost of his life, have resonated deeply with many.
Mkhwanazi's rise through the ranks of the SAPS, from a student constable in 1993 to Lieutenant General in 2011, is a testament to his dedication and commitment to law enforcement. His previous decision to suspend crime intelligence boss Richard Mdluli for alleged misconduct demonstrates his willingness to challenge powerful figures, even at personal risk.
However, Mkhwanazi's actions have also drawn scrutiny. In March 2024, Mchunu filed a formal complaint with the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), accusing Mkhwanazi of interfering in the arrest of a correctional services official with alleged links to a drug cartel. Mkhwanazi has dismissed this probe as a smear campaign designed to undermine his efforts to tackle politically connected crime networks.
Adding to the complexity, the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (Idac) is reportedly investigating possible tender corruption amounting to more than R6.7 million against Mkhwanazi and Masemola. Sources claim that Mkhwanazi's recent media briefing was a pre-emptive strike aimed at mobilizing public sympathy to thwart any attempt by Idac to arrest him and Masemola, hence Masemola supported him.
The case against them involves allegations that they received cash bribes from corruption accused Inban Kistiah, a Durban businessman who secured the R6.7 million tender in 2016. It is alleged that Kistiah was awarded a tender to provide 200 bulletproof vests for ballistic testing at an inflated price of R33,000 per vest.
Adding another layer of intrigue, Mchunu's defenders argue that his intervention was aimed at preventing possible financial mismanagement. They point to internal communiques indicating that the crime intelligence unit requested a staggering R95 million for the political killings task team. Concerns were raised about the budget allocation and the duration of the task team's existence.
As the drama unfolds, the future of General Mkhwanazi, Minister Mchunu, and other key figures in the SAPS remains uncertain. However, so far, the learned KwaZulu-Natal Police General has emerged the winner of the battle. The allegations of corruption, political interference, and power struggles have cast a shadow over South Africa's law enforcement agencies, raising serious questions about the integrity and effectiveness of the SAPS.
Now that we have shared with you General Mkhwanazi's impressive credentials and professional experience, which position do you think he should hold in South Africa?
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