South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe as the interim Minister of Police following the leave of absence granted to Senzo Mchunu, who is currently under investigation for alleged links to criminal networks within the South African Police Service (SAPS).
The appointment, which is effective until the end of July 2025, comes as the government navigates a growing crisis surrounding corruption allegations at the highest levels of law enforcement. President Ramaphosa has also announced that Professor Firoz Cachalia will assume the role of permanent Police Minister starting August 1, 2025.
Mchunu’s temporary removal follows damning claims made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who implicated several political and law enforcement figures in a widespread criminal syndicate. In response to mounting public pressure and political fallout, Ramaphosa has established a judicial commission of inquiry to investigate the corruption allegations.
This latest cabinet reshuffle is seen as a strategic move by the presidency to restore public trust in SAPS and demonstrate accountability at a time when violent crime and institutional mistrust remain top concerns in South Africa. As one of the country’s most senior and experienced ministers, Mantashe’s temporary stewardship is expected to provide stability during this politically sensitive transition.
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