Put SA First calls for protection for Mkhwanazi after explosive SAPS allegations

PUT SOUTH Africa First handed over a memorandum to the Premier’s Office in Kimberley on July 18 on behalf of the South African public, civil society organisations, professional bodies, and youth, calling for protection for whistle-blower and KwaZulu-Natal SAPS commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

Mkhwanazi has alleged that corruption, political interference, and malfeasance are rife within the highest echelons of the police service.

He further claimed that Police Minister Senzo Mchunu disbanded the Political Killings Task Team and that 121 active investigation dockets, which were redirected to the office of national deputy commissioner Lieutenant-General Shadrack Sibiya, were subsequently dismantled.

Both Mchunu and Sibiya have since been placed on special leave.

March convener and national convener of the Abahambe National Civic Movement, Alodia Jacobs, stated that Mchunu should have been dismissed in the face of such serious allegations.

“We are behind Mkhwanazi, and if anything happens to him, we will know who is behind it,” she said.

The memorandum expressed grave concern over the growing incidence of corruption within government institutions and law enforcement.

“This has resulted in the misuse of public funds, the collapse of essential services, and the erosion of trust between government and citizens. The burden of corruption is disproportionately borne by ordinary South Africans — especially the poor and vulnerable — who suffer daily from poor service delivery, unemployment, and the weakening of institutions meant to protect their rights.

“Despite numerous commissions of inquiry, public reports, and public pronouncements, there has been insufficient enforcement, political accountability, and systemic reform. The continued failure to implement real, tangible anti-corruption measures has deepened public frustration and weakened the credibility of democratic governance.”

The memorandum called for decisive leadership and a renewed national commitment to restoring integrity and justice in the public sector.

“Independent oversight bodies must be insulated from political pressure. The capacity of the National Prosecuting Authority, Special Investigating Unit, Public Protector, and SAPS must be bolstered.”

It also urged that all public officials be subjected to lifestyle audits, and that public procurement systems be reviewed to eliminate irregular tenders.

“More stringent border management policies should be enforced and illegal entry points must be closed. A lawful and constitutionally compliant process must be developed to deport illegal foreign nationals,” it stated.