President Ramaphosa emphasizes the grave national security risks posed by allegations of political interference against Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. Image: News24
(The Post News)- President Cyril Ramaphosa has described the allegations against Police Minister Senzo Mchunu as a matter of grave national security concern, emphasizing that the issue is receiving the highest priority and urgent attention.
Following public accusations by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, against Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and Deputy National Commissioner Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya of political interference in police operations, the matter has sparked intense scrutiny.
In a media briefing held in Durban on Sunday, 6 July, Mkhwanazi announced his intention to lay criminal charges against Minister Mchunu, accusing him of unlawful interference in operational policing. He further alleged that in March, 121 case dockets, including five containing arrest instructions, were removed from a specialized task team investigating political killings.
President Ramaphosa stated, “This is a matter of grave national security concern that is receiving the highest priority attention. It is vital that the integrity of the country’s security services is safeguarded and that the rule of law is affirmed.”
He added, “All parties to this matter are called upon to exercise discipline and restraint. The trading of accusations and counter-accusations threatens to undermine public confidence and sow confusion. Furthermore, these actions damage the unity and focus of the police.”
President Ramaphosa is currently attending the BRICS Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Upon his return, he will outline the actions to be taken in response to the allegations raised by General Mkhwanazi.
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