Hands Off Mkhwanazi | Protesters Call for Action, Not Inquiries

(The Post News)- The “Hands Off Mkhwanazi” campaign is gathering momentum as civil society groups and Durban residents prepare to march in support of KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. This follows similar protests organized by the MK Party in Johannesburg and outside the KwaZulu-Natal police headquarters.

The demonstrations come in the wake of explosive allegations made by Mkhwanazi during a media briefing in Durban on 6 July, where he implicated Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and senior officers in links to organized crime.

In response, President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the nation on Sunday, 13 July, announcing the establishment of an independent judicial commission of inquiry to investigate these allegations. The commission will be led by Acting Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, assisted by senior counsels Advocates Sesi Baloyi and Sandile Khumalo.

Speaking to eNCA News, Dr. Dumusani Mkhize of the Umnotho Wabansundu Organization highlighted the critical role of whistleblowers in society. He emphasized that whistleblowers should serve the public interest rather than government agendas, noting that many view Mkhwanazi as a courageous whistleblower raising vital public concerns. “Such persons like General Mkhwanazi must be protected by all means,” Mkhize stressed, calling on the public to uphold this responsibility.

Teresa Nortje, the march organizer, expressed strong dissatisfaction with the President’s decision to place Minister Mchunu on special leave with full benefits. She described the move as “unethical and unlawful,” insisting, “He should have been suspended with immediate effect, no perks thereafter.”

Nortje further praised Mkhwanazi’s consistent support for the people of KwaZulu-Natal during challenging times. She urged the President to heed the voices of South Africans, calling Mkhwanazi a true hero and warning of serious consequences if any harm comes to him.