President Responds to Allegations of Political Interference in SAPS
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| South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. Image GCIS Handout EPA |
President Cyril Ramaphosa has finally addressed the swirling controversy surrounding allegations of political interference within the South African Police Service (SAPS). This comes after KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, dropped bombshell claims implicating senior government officials in efforts to derail key police investigations.
Speaking on the sidelines of the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Ramaphosa confirmed that he is well aware of the allegations and committed to giving them serious attention. With growing pressure from both political and civil society sectors, his response could set the tone for how South Africa handles institutional accountability moving forward.President Ramaphosa says he had no foreknowledge of Lt. General Mkhwanzi’s presser yesterday but he will “look at it more closely” when he is back from Brazil. pic.twitter.com/RGerPMQfKT
— Aldrin Sampear (@AldrinSampear) July 7, 2025
The Allegations Rocking SAPS
General Mkhwanazi’s claims were nothing short of seismic. In a public briefing, he alleged that certain top-ranking politicians and SAPS leaders were involved in disbanding specialized units that were investigating politically linked crimes including assassinations. His most pointed criticism was directed at Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and Deputy Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya, whom he accused of obstructing justice and shielding corrupt networks.
Mkhwanazi went even further, suggesting that the interference is part of a broader pattern where political and criminal interests are intertwined, involving high-level collusion with drug cartels and power brokers.
Ramaphosa Calls for Calm and Action
While some expected a swift condemnation or immediate action, President Ramaphosa opted for a more measured tone. He described the issue as a "grave national concern" and appealed for restraint among officials. He stressed the importance of due process and emphasized that internal instability within the SAPS could damage public confidence in the justice system.
However, the president also made it clear that these are not allegations that will be swept under the rug. He assured the public that the matter will be taken up urgently once he returns from the BRICS Summit.
Mounting Political Pressure
The president’s statement comes amid increasing calls from opposition parties and civil society for a full independent investigation. The Democratic Alliance (DA), Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), and others have demanded that Minister Mchunu step aside pending a formal inquiry. Meanwhile, several watchdog groups are calling for a transparent judicial commission to determine the extent of interference if any.
Some within the ruling African National Congress (ANC) are also reportedly uneasy, aware that the scandal could deepen internal divisions and erode public trust ahead of key local elections.
What Happens Next?
South Africans are watching closely. General Mkhwanazi has not yet released any documentary evidence to support his claims, which some critics argue is necessary to move beyond speculation. Nonetheless, the gravity of his accusations has already triggered a political earthquake.
As the president returns to local soil later this week, all eyes will be on the steps his administration takes next. Will there be a formal inquiry? Will high-level suspensions follow? Or will this be yet another scandal that fades into silence?
This unfolding saga highlights a broader crisis within South African institutions one where accountability, transparency, and integrity are being severely tested. President Ramaphosa’s leadership in the coming days will be critical in restoring public faith and reinforcing the country’s commitment to clean governance
Read the full briefing where Mkhwanazi made his explosive claims here.
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