Mchunu Denies Interference Claims, Calls Allegations Unfounded
Natalie Nyathi
Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu has firmly rejected allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. Mkhwanazi accused Mchunu of interfering in police investigations related to a task team focused on political killings. Mchunu called these accusations “baseless” and lacking evidence.
The controversy began during a media briefing at the KwaZulu-Natal provincial headquarters, where Mkhwanazi claimed that Mchunu had dissolved the political killings task team after it uncovered a crime syndicate linked to politicians, including members of Parliament. Mkhwanazi further alleged that he had evidence connecting Mchunu and his associate Brown Mogotsi to businessman Vusimusi “Cat” Matlala, who was recently arrested for attempted murder.
While campaigning in Vryheid for the upcoming July 16 by-elections, Mchunu responded to Mkhwanazi’s claims. He expressed disappointment over the allegations and stated that he would not let his integrity or that of the South African Police Service (SAPS) be compromised by unfounded statements. “The Minister of Police will never allow his integrity to be undermined by allegations made without evidence,” Mchunu said.
He called for a thorough investigation into Mkhwanazi’s statements, stressing the importance of accountability within the police force. Mchunu noted that Mkhwanazi’s remarks needed careful examination.
Mkhwanazi claimed that an analysis of electronic communications revealed connections between Matlala, Mogotsi, and Mchunu, suggesting that Matlala had financially supported the minister’s political activities. These serious allegations have led to increased scrutiny of Mchunu and raised concerns about the integrity of police operations in the province.
The African National Congress (ANC) has taken a cautious approach, with NEC member Mdu Manana stating that the party will not address Mkhwanazi’s claims unless formal charges are brought against Mchunu. “At this point, it doesn’t warrant a discussion in the NEC. It’s an allegation, and comrade Senzo has not been charged,” Manana said, indicating that Mkhwanazi’s statements require further investigation.
As the situation develops, both the public and political observers are closely watching how this issue unfolds and what it may mean for the police force and the political landscape in South Africa. The call for transparency and accountability remains crucial amid these allegations.
