Abigail Visagie

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa says allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi are a matter of grave national security concern which will receive the highest priority attention.

Mkhwanazi this morning during a media briefing accused Police Minister, Senzo Mchunu of interfering in police investigations.

Ramaphosa says the country’s security services should be safeguarded and ensure that the rule of law is affirmed.

“All parties to this matter are called upon to exercise discipline and restraint. The trading of accusations and counter-accusations threatens to undermine public confidence and sow confusion.

“Furthermore, these actions damage the unity and focus of the police,” Ramaphosa said.

Meanwhile, the uMkhonto Wesizwe Party has issued a statement saluting Mkhwanazi for his dedication to justice and transparency.

“General Mkhwanazi has demonstrated profound courage and integrity, especially in the face of adversity. His leadership, which initially focused on addressing political killings and has now expanded to include the investigation of high-profile murders, is both commendable and necessary for restoring public faith in our justice system,” said MK’s national spokesperson, Nhlamulo Ndhlela.

Ndhlela further demanded that the general should press criminal charges against Minister Mchunu and General Sibiya for defeating the ends of justice within the next 24 hours.

On the other hand, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), is calling for the immediate suspension of Mchunu and Deputy Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Shardack Sibiya and commended Mkhwanazi for exposing a criminal syndicate rooted deep within the SAPS and judiciary system.

Mkhwanazi also accused Mchunu and Sibiya of protecting drug cartels and using SAPS contracts to fund the ANC’s political campaigns.

Ramaphosa will outline the actions to be taken on this matter on his return from the BRICS Leaders Summit currently underway in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.