South Africa’s Police Minister Suspended

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu following allegations that he interfered with investigations into politically motivated assassinations. The decision comes amid mounting pressure to address claims that senior figures in law enforcement have been obstructing justice for political gain.

The controversy began after KwaZulu-Natal’s police commissioner accused Mchunu of disrupting a task team that had been probing a series of political killings. According to the commissioner, the minister shut down the unit and failed to support its operations, raising concerns that he may have been shielding individuals tied to political violence.

Mchunu has denied the allegations, insisting they are baseless and politically driven. Nevertheless, President Ramaphosa has taken the matter seriously, launching an independent judicial commission to investigate the accusations.

The inquiry will be led by a retired deputy chief justice, supported by two senior advocates. The panel has been granted powers to recommend criminal charges, refer cases to the appropriate authorities, and advise on suspending any officials found to be involved in misconduct.

While the investigation is ongoing, a law professor has been appointed as the acting Police Minister. The commission is expected to release a preliminary report within three months, and a full report in six. In the meantime, opposition parties have criticized Ramaphosa’s handling of the situation, with some calling for a vote of no confidence in Parliament.

The suspension has reignited debate over the integrity of South Africa’s law enforcement institutions, especially amid ongoing concerns about the country’s high rates of violent crime. Many view the move as a defining moment for Ramaphosa’s presidency, testing his resolve to clean up state institutions and reaffirm the government’s commitment to justice.