President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to launch a judicial commission of inquiry rather than act immediately on explosive claims of criminal infiltration in the South African Police Service (SAPS) has sparked public debate. Many are asking: Why not take decisive action now?
Speaking to ENCA, presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said, “We are a country underpinned by the rule of law. I cannot make an allegation against you and expect you to be held accountable without due process.”
Ramaphosa announced the inquiry on Sunday evening at the Union Buildings in Tshwane, tasking Acting Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga with leading the process.
The commission will investigate claims of deep criminal infiltration in SAPS, intelligence, and related justice institutions, including involvement by police officials, politicians, and alleged links to a Gauteng drug cartel.
Inquiry on claims of political interference
The inquiry follows damning public claims by KZN SAPS commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who said a drug syndicate had compromised key law enforcement figures. Mkhwanazi accused Mchunu of attempting to halt investigations, saying the minister ordered the disbanding of the political killings task team and the withdrawal of over 100 dockets.
Despite these serious accusations, the presidency insists that accountability must be driven by evidence, not outrage.
“These allegations are grave,” Magwenya said, “and therefore require a competent mechanism to investigate and recommend decisive action.”
New Appointment Amid Crisis
Ramaphosa appointed law professor and former Gauteng MEC for Community Safety, Firoz Cachalia, to be the acting police commissioner while Mchunu is away.
“The president wanted to bring someone from outside Parliament with the right experience,” Magwenya explained.
“Cachalia chairs the National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council and is well-versed in both law and security matters.”
The president expects interim findings from the commission within three to six months, with a final report going to Parliament and the Chief Justice.
Do judicial inquiries bring real accountability, or delay justice when urgent leadership decisions are needed?
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