South Africa’s political and security landscape was shaken on Sunday, July 13, 2025, as President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has been placed on immediate leave following serious allegations linking him to organised crime networks.
In a nationally televised address, President Ramaphosa stated that the allegations are “grave and deeply concerning,” adding that they undermine the constitution and pose a threat to national security.
“Given the seriousness of the accusations, and in the interest of protecting the integrity of our law enforcement institutions, I have asked Minister Senzo Mchunu to step aside while investigations proceed,” the president declared.He emphasized that no individual is above the law and that the country’s institutions must be allowed to operate without interference or suspicion.
Judicial Commission of Inquiry Announced To ensure a thorough and independent investigation, President Ramaphosa announced the formation of a Judicial Commission of Inquiry, led by Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya.
The commission will have a broad mandate to:Investigate claims of corruption and collusion with organised crime involving senior police officers and government officials Probe historical links between criminal syndicates and state structures Make recommendations for legal and institutional reforms to improve oversightThe commission is expected to commence its work immediately and will have the power to subpoena witnesses, access classified information, and hold public hearings.
While details of the allegations remain largely confidential, sources close to the presidency and the National Intelligence Coordinating Committee (NICOC) suggest that multiple intelligence reports flagged Minister Mchunu’s alleged involvement in:
Shielding high-profile organised crime bosses Obstructing investigations into drug trafficking, illegal firearms, and money laundering Using his position to influence key appointments within the South African Police Service (SAPS)A leaked intelligence memo reportedly submitted in late June to the presidency triggered an urgent security review, culminating in Sunday’s decision.
Public and Political Reactions to the announcement were swift and intense:Opposition parties, including the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), welcomed the move and called for Mchunu’s immediate resignation and possible arrest.
Civil society groups, such as Corruption Watch and Outa, hailed the decision as a turning point in restoring public confidence in the criminal justice system.Within the ruling African National Congress (ANC), the development has reportedly sparked internal tensions, with some members urging caution while others press for sweeping reforms.
An acting Police Minister is expected to be appointed in the coming days.The Judicial Commission’s preliminary findings are anticipated within the next 90 days.Investigations could lead to criminal charges, resignations, or further suspensions.President Ramaphosa has vowed that the government will not shield anyone found culpable.
“We will not allow criminal networks to hijack our state institutions. The safety and trust of South Africans depend on the integrity of our leaders,” he said.—Would you like this story repackaged as a news article, press release, or broadcast script?
