South African News

uMkhonto weSizwe Party praises SAPS for reinstating Political Killings Task Team

Sipho Jack|Published

KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, has unleashed a storm in South Africa’s world of intelligence. His explosive disclosures have triggered a deluge of questions, literally opening Pandora’s Box.

Image: Thobile Mathonsi / Independent Newspapers

The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) has expressed renewed confidence in the South African Police Service (SAPS) following the reinstatement of the Political Killings Task Team, describing the move as a pivotal step towards restoring justice for victims of politically and criminally motivated violence that has engulfed the nation.

MK Party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndlhela praised the task team for their "perseverance and professionalism," which he said had illuminated numerous crimes that might have otherwise faded into obscurity.

Nhlamulo Ndhlela affirms the MK Party's confidence in the re-establishment of the SAPS "Political Killings Task Team,"

Image: Itumeleng English / Independent Newspapers

"We celebrate the effectiveness of the Political Killings Task Team, which has already arrested and charged 436 individuals; this is clear evidence of their capabilities," Ndlhela noted.

Ndlhela articulated a strong stance on the principle that “justice delayed is justice denied,” underscoring the urgency for swift action in the pursuit of justice for all victims.

Ndlhela rejected calls for a judicial commission of inquiry intended to scrutinise allegations made by General Mkhwanazi regarding the now-suspended police minister, Senzo Mchunu's alleged collusion with criminal elements.

He argued that such a commission could only serve to delay justice even further.

"We urge General Mkhwanazi and the Political Killings Task Team to act swiftly and make additional arrests, including any of those implicated politicians, parliamentarians, and members of the judiciary, specifically naming Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and Deputy National Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya,” Ndlhela asserted.

In a show of support for the task team, Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe echoed sentiments of gratitude towards the team’s diligent work, stating that Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola was pleased with the task team's progress.

National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola spoke to the media after signing a memorandum following the "Hands Off Mkhwanazi" march in Durban.

Image: Doctor Ngcobo/ Independent Newspapers

"General Masemola is optimistic about the hope that their ongoing investigations will ultimately bring closure to the affected families,” Mathe conveyed.

Highlighting the commitment of law enforcement personnel, she said, "Well done to the teams that have been piecing together evidence since November 2022.

This is the culmination of hard work and dedication to justice. It is crucial that we take our time to ensure a thorough investigation, so we can present a strong case before the court."

The MK Party has reaffirmed its steadfast support for the task team, applauding their unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth, especially in cases fraught with political sensitivities.

"We urge the continuation of their mandate, free from political interference, and we remain resolute in our call for full accountability. We reiterate that justice must never be compromised,” Ndlhela urged.

DAILY NEWS