By Marcus Moloko
Suspended police Minister Senzo Mchunu has officially stepped aside from his ANC duties following a recommendation by the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) on Monday.
The move to step aside, at Mchunu’s request, comes as mounting allegations link him to criminal networks and political interference.
These allegations have cast a long shadow over his future in government and active politics.
Mchunu’s troubles began in July 2025, when KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi publicly accused high-ranking officials of interfering with police operations.
Mchunu was alleged to have unilaterally disbanded the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT), a unit that was tasked with probing politically motivated murders and organized crime.
The allegations deepened during hearings before both the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry and Parliament’s ad hoc committee.
Mchunu was linked to tender tycoon Vusimuzi Cat Matlala and businessman Brown Mogotsi, two people associated with criminal syndicates and ANC-supported networks.
A witness, known as Witness C, testified that Matlala boasted of close ties with Mchunu and allegedly contributed R 500 000 to his presidential campaign, covering travel and accommodation for the ANC events.
While Mchunu has not been formally charged, the seriousness of the allegations prompted him to voluntarily hand over his electronic devices to police last week, November 7, 2025.
His spokesperson, Sthembiso Mshengu, confirmed that a search and seizure warrant was executed at his residence with the PKTT informing him in advance.
Why did he step aside?
ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula said Mchunu’s decision to take special leave was voluntary and not the party’s step-aside rule, which applied to members formally charged in court.
“Mchunu has not been indicted to appear in a court of law on a charge of corruption or other serious crime,” Mbalula said.
“However, this does not mean that he or any other member who is alleged to be involved in corrupt activities cannot voluntarily step aside.”
Mchunu’s move, although proactive, could be seen as an attempt to shield the ANC from reputational damage while investigations continue.
What happens if he didn’t step aside?
The ANC would have continued to face intense public backlash and internal pressure to enforce accountability, considering those implicated at the Madlanga Commission and their close ties to the party.
Mchunu’s continued presence in leadership could have undermined the credibility of both the party and the government, especially as the country grapples with allegations of corruption presented in Parliament and the Madlanga Commission, which have unveiled crimes and corruption links.
Had Mchunu failed to cooperate with investigations, this may have escalated the situation, possibly leading to formal charges.
Had formal criminal proceedings been initiated, Mchunu would be compelled to step aside under the ANC rules, and his political career would face consequences.
What’s next?
For the record, no charges have been laid against Mchunu.
The Madlanga Commission and Parliament’s committee are expected to deliver findings that could determine whether Mchunu faces prosecution.
His voluntary special leave may buy him time, but it also signals the seriousness of the current situation.
Findings of both inquiries could reshape the ANC’s approach to internal accountability, and this could certainly impact Mchunu’s legacy going forward.
In the final analysis, one is left to wonder; has Mchunu shot himself in the foot to walk better?
Only time will tell.
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