South Africa's Ramaphosa suspends police minister amid criminal link allegations

South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa has suspended police minister Senzo Mchunu from his duties with immediate effect, following accusations by a top police official that Mchunu had colluded with a criminal syndicate and interfered in high-profile investigations. Mchunu vehemently denied the allegations last Sunday at a media briefing, calling them baseless. In a statement issued by his spokesperson last week, he reiterated his commitment to upholding the rule of law. The accusations were made by Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the police commissioner of KwaZulu-Natal province.Ramaphosa, whose ascent to the presidency was largely predicated on promises to combat corruption, has faced increasing pressure to act swiftly. Political parties and citizens alike have voiced concerns that the allegations severely undermine the integrity of the criminal justice system.For years, investors have expressed significant concern over South Africa's rampant crime rates, which the World Bank estimates cost the country an estimated 10% of its gross domestic product annually. "These allegations therefore call for an urgent and comprehensive investigation," Ramaphosa stated in a public address carried by both public and private broadcasters. He added that he would establish a judicial commission of inquiry for this purpose. Ramaphosa announced that law professor Firoz Cachalia would be appointed as acting minister of police. Mchunu is a prominent figure within Ramaphosas African National Congress (ANC) party, with political analysts suggesting he could contend for a leadership position at the ANCs next elective conference in 2027. Citing digital evidence, including WhatsApp messages, Mkhwanazi's allegations included claims that Mchunu had disbanded a police unit specifically tasked with investigating politically motivated killings. This move, Mkhwanazi alleged, was intended to shield politicians, police officers, and others linked to a criminal syndicate. Mkhwanazi further asserted that over 100 case files were removed from the political killings task team and have not been investigated since. The Democratic Alliance (DA), the ANCs main coalition partner, has called for a parliamentary inquiry into the allegations against Mchunu. At least one opposition party has also publicly demanded his suspension. The post South Africa's Ramaphosa suspends police minister amid criminal link allegations appeared first on Linda Ikeji Blog.