By Thulane Madalane
Pretoria:President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Gwede Mantashe, the current Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, as the Acting Minister of Police, effective immediately. Mantashe will serve in this role until Prof. Firoz Cachalia, who is set to retire from his position at the University of the Witwatersrand at the end of July, takes over in early August.
This pivotal appointment comes at a critical time for the South African government as it combats serious allegations of corruption and criminal infiltration within law enforcement and intelligence structures. On Sunday evening, President Ramaphosa addressed the nation regarding the establishment of a judicial commission of inquiry aimed at investigating these alarming claims.
The decision to launch the inquiry follows grave accusations made by KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who alleged that significant interference from government officials is hindering police investigations. Mkhwanazi accused the Minister of Police of colluding with business entities facing serious charges to dismantle the Political Killings Task Team in KwaZulu-Natal. The allegations suggest a disturbing nexus of politically connected figures, drug cartels, and compromised law enforcement and judicial officials.
“The claims, if proven true, undermine the very foundation of our democracy and the safety of our citizens,” President Ramaphosa stated, reflecting the weight of the allegations. He emphasized his concern over the growing threats of corruption and crime—including gender-based violence and gang activities—that pose dire risks to public safety.
To lead the inquiry, Acting Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga has been appointed, assisted by Advocates Sesi Baloyi SC and Sandile Khumalo SC. Their mandate includes exploring potential collusion among senior officials within law enforcement and intelligence, as well as assessing the actions of any National Executive members who may be complicit in these alleged criminal activities.
President Ramaphosa reiterated the necessity for thorough investigations, asserting, “We are dedicated to ensuring that oversight mechanisms are strengthened, and institutional reforms are implemented based on the findings of this inquiry.” In a decisive move to reinforce the integrity of the ongoing investigations, he has placed Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu on leave, enabling Mantashe to step into a role that will be closely scrutinized in the coming weeks.
As Acting Minister, Mantashe will retain his responsibilities as Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources while navigating the immediate challenges facing the police service. His leadership will be crucial during this transitional period as South Africa seeks to restore confidence in its law enforcement agencies amid deepening concerns of integrity and accountability.
