The past few days have been “turbulent” for Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, who appeared to struggle under questioning from Members of Parliament during his testimony before Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee.
The committee is investigating serious allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who claimed there was political interference in the South African Police Service (SAPS) — including a directive to disband the specialised Political Killings Task Team.
Mchunu concluded his testimony this week, facing pointed questions about his decisions, internal SAPS processes, and his role in the alleged interference. Mabunda says the hearings are an important reminder that “nothing stays hidden forever,” adding that the inquiry highlights the urgent need for transparency and accountability within South Africa’s security structures.
Call for an Audit and Anti-Corruption Agency
In his closing remarks, Mchunu made several recommendations to the Ad Hoc Committee — notably calling for a full audit of the Political Killings Task Team. He suggested that the Auditor-General be tasked with conducting an independent review of the team’s finances and operations.
“The Auditor General should be approached and appointed to conduct a full and independent audit of the National Political Task Team’s financial matters,” Mchunu said.
He further proposed the creation of a single, independent anti-corruption agency, arguing that fragmented accountability structures have weakened the state’s ability to root out corruption.
“We all acknowledge, within the security cluster, that we are very weak,” he said. “A single independent anti-corruption agency would be a step toward rebuilding public trust.”
Questions Over Security Clearance
Mchunu also faced scrutiny over his Chief of Staff, Cedrick Nkabinde, whose security clearance status became a point of contention. Nkabinde, a former employee of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), was reportedly offered the Chief of Staff role by Mchunu — but later admitted he was unclear about the responsibilities involved.
When questioned by Democratic Alliance MP Ian Cameron, Mchunu appeared uncertain about whether Nkabinde currently holds the necessary security clearance.
“You must know the status of security clearance because he is a person working around sensitive information,” Cameron pressed. “The fact that you don’t know if he has it is concerning.”
The issue has raised fresh concerns about vetting procedures within the police ministry, especially for positions that involve access to classified information.
As the inquiry continues, observers like Prof Mabunda say the findings could have far-reaching implications for both the credibility of SAPS leadership and the broader political establishment.
“This process could redefine how political accountability is handled within the police,” Mabunda said. “If handled properly, it may finally bring light to the dark corners of political interference in law enforcement.”