The content on this page is not written by Polity.org.za, but is supplied by third parties. This content does not constitute news reporting by Polity.org.za.

The IFP notes with support the announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa to appoint an Independent Commission of Inquiry into the serious and wide-ranging allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, against the Minister of Police, Mr. Senzo Mchunu.

The IFP commends the President for acting on our proposal - made on 6 July 2025 - for a judge-led Commission of Inquiry and for Minister Mchunu to be placed on special leave while investigations unfold. We are encouraged that the President has taken this decisive action in the national interest.

This is a matter that cuts to the heart of public trust in our democratic institutions, the criminal justice system, and national security. The allegations of criminality, corruption, collusion and interference within the South African Police Service (SAPS) are deeply alarming and warrant a response of the highest integrity.

The allegations detail a systemic lack of integrity, trust and good governance within the Police eco-system and law enforcement apparatus. The trust deficit renders law enforcement unable to investigate these allegations because they emerge from the highest echelons of the SAPS against the highest echelons of the SAPS.

We welcome the appointment of retired Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga as Chairperson of the Commission. His legal expertise, integrity and judicial independence will lend the process the credibility and seriousness it demands. The IFP also notes the appointment of Professor Firoz Cachalia as Acting Minister of Police, which will ensure continuity of leadership in the Ministry and provide the necessary distance from the subject of the inquiry.

The IFP reiterates its belief that the SAPS, as the primary subject of the allegations, cannot investigate itself on such grave matters. Only an independent, impartial and credible process will suffice—and today’s announcement by the President lays the foundation for that.

As we stated previously: “The war against crime will not be won and South Africans will not be safe if the fish is rotten at the head.” These allegations must be thoroughly interrogated, and wrongdoing—if confirmed—must be met with consequences. South Africans deserve a police service that is ethical, professional, and beyond reproach.

We call on the Commission to act with urgency and transparency, and for all implicated parties to fully cooperate. The IFP will closely monitor the progress of the inquiry and continue to advocate for clean governance and accountability in all arms of the state.

Issued by IFP National Spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa