President Ramaphosa announced the commission, to be chaired by acting deputy chief justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, to investigate allegations of criminal syndicate infiltration within law enforcement and intelligence institutions. This comes after Mkhwanazi accused Mchunu of interfering with police investigations and exceeding his authority by ordering the disbandment of the political killings task team. During his announcement, Ramaphosa also placed Minister Mchunu on special leave, appointing Prof Firoz Cachalia as acting police minister.
ActionSA has strongly criticized the decision, arguing that a new commission of inquiry is redundant given that existing law enforcement agencies like Ipid should be handling such investigations. They drew parallels to the Zondo Commission report on state capture, which they contend has largely failed to lead to prosecutions despite its findings.
DA leader John Steenhuisen echoed these concerns, welcoming the new ministerial appointment but expressing skepticism about the commission. He noted the public’s dwindling trust in commissions of inquiry, especially after the Zondo inquiry yielded no convictions despite naming individuals. Steenhuisen warned that another inquiry without consequences could further erode public confidence.
Brett Herron, secretary-general of the GOOD party, described the commission as “too slow, too cumbersome and too costly.” He emphasized that a commission of inquiry cannot replace a criminal investigation, pointing out that the Zondo commission merely produced prima facie evidence that still required further investigation by authorities. Herron argued that Mkhwanazi’s allegations demand an urgent and credible criminal investigation, not a prolonged process with uncertain outcomes.
In contrast, RISE Mzansi welcomed the establishment of the inquiry. The party believes a judicial commission is crucial because the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the minister cannot investigate themselves. Makashule Gana, RISE Mzansi National Assembly caucus whip, stated that the inquiry would “insulate the process from political contamination.”
Meanwhile, Minister Mchunu has welcomed his special leave and pledged full commitment to the process. He stated, “Honour and integrity are the virtues I personally subscribe to and which we all need to make efforts to uphold. I stand ready to respond to the accusations against me and account to the citizens of the republic, fully and honestly so.”
