Parties demand action against SAPS top brass following Mkhwanazi’s revelations

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has called for an urgent parliamentary debate following explosive revelations from KZN Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who has accused senior law enforcement and political figures of being at the centre of a deeply entrenched corruption syndicate.

In a dramatic media briefing held in Durban on Sunday, Mkhwanazi alleged that a powerful network — involving top police officials, senior politicians, correctional services personnel, prosecutors, members of the judiciary, and high-profile businesspeople — is actively undermining law enforcement through political interference, corruption, and abuse of power.

Among those implicated are Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and Deputy National Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya — both accused of obstructing justice and protecting criminal elements within the police service.

Mkhwanazi’s revelations have sent shockwaves through the country’s security establishment, raising questions about accountability at the highest levels. 

The DA’s Ian Cameron emphasised that the debate should center on the ongoing integrity and management crisis within the police service.

“These disturbing allegations of corruption, political interference, and malfeasance at the very top of South Africa's law enforcement and national security infrastructure must be investigated immediately.

“It is deeply harrowing to hear reports by the Provincial Commissioner of alleged political and criminal interference within the SAPS' police killings task team,” he said in a statement. 

Cameron stated that until the SAPS had robust integrity management inside and out, the country would never win against violent crime. 

He said that an urgent investigation into the matter is needed.

“We demand an investigation, and the DA will get to the answers,” he added. 

This comes after the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has called on Cameron to convene an urgent physical Portfolio

Committee sitting following Mkhwanazi’s briefing.

EFF has expressed grave concern about the revelations, saying this proved their long’s held view that the ANC-led government has become a breeding ground for a mafia state. 

The DA’s call also comes after President Cyril Ramaphosa expelled Deputy Trade and Industry Minister Andrew Whitfield, a senior DA member, over an unauthorised international trip. 

The blue party responded by withdrawing from the National Dialogue process, which is a key platform for inter-party consultation.

But, the party has not ruled out tabling a motion of no confidence against Ramaphosa.

The MK Party commended Mkhwanazi for his unwavering dedication to justice and transparency.

“His recent actions and statements made during the Special Operational Briefing underscore a relentless commitment to safeguarding the people and upholding the sanctity of the law, ensuring that no stone is left unturned in the fight against political crimes and violence,” MKP said in a statement. 

MKP called upon Mkhwanazi to lay criminal charges against Mchunu and Sibiya for defeating the ends of justice. 

kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za

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