By Marcus Moloko
Suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu may not have been formally implicated in the Madlanga Commission’s interim report, but the weight of allegations against him, including President Cyril Ramaphosa’s cautious handling of the matter, has sparked accusations of cadre protection.
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Critics argue that Ramaphosa’s reluctance to act decisively raises questions about accountability and political shielding.
Despite the Presidency’s insistence that Mchunu remains on special leave pending the commission’s final report, several serious allegations continue to cloud his tenure.
- Mchunu admitted to dissolving the PKTT without consulting National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola.
This undermined investigations into politically linked murders, leaving dockets stranded at head office and stalling justice.
- Testimony before the Madlanga Commission alleged that Mchunu improperly instructed operational decisions, crossing boundaries between political oversight and police command structures.
- Witnesses implicated Mchunu in associations with alleged cartel kingpin Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, though he has dismissed these claims as baseless.
- The commission highlighted that Mchunu failed to conduct a review of the task team before shutting it down, raising concerns about reckless governance.
- Separate investigations have been launched into claims that Mchunu interfered with police investigations to protect politically connected individuals.
While Mchunu faces an arsenal of allegations, Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya insists that Ramaphosa is not protecting Mchunu, but rather ensuring due process.
The President has argued that acting prematurely could invite claims of unfairness, according to Magwenya.
This despite critics points that Ramaphosa swiftly authorized investigations into other officials while Mchunu remained on paid leave, fueling suspicions of preferential treatment.
If Mchunu has already conceded to disbanding the PKTT without consultation, is that not serious enough for immediate dismissal?
Why does Ramaphosa appear hesitant to act against a minister facing multiple allegations, while others have been referred for criminal investigation?
Does the President’s reliance on the commission’s final report reflect respect for constitutional process, or a calculated delay to shield an ally?
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Civil society groups are divided. Some argue Mchunu acted within his ministerial powers, citing constitutional authority over policing policy. Others, including watchdogs like OUTA, demand his dismissal, calling his continued salary amid suspension a misuse of taxpayer funds.
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