A judicial commission has been established to investigate Senzo Mchunus alleged ties to criminal syndicates

The African National Congress (ANC) has backed South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's decision to place Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on special leave, calling the move "courageous and principled" amid mounting allegations of misconduct.

In a statement on Monday, the ANC said this showed that the party was willing to uphold integrity by taking action against corruption.

"We welcome and support the President's decision to place Minister Senzo Mchunu on a leave of absence pending the outcome of the inquiry. This decisive action reaffirms the President's commitment to the rule of law.

"It is a clear demonstration of the seriousness with which the President and government respond to allegations of corruption and criminal conduct, regardless of who is involved," the ANC said.

This follows bombshell accusations by KZN Police Commissioner Lt-Gen. Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who claims Mchunu interfered in operational policing, disbanded the specialist Political Killings Task Team, and maintained ties to criminal networks operating in the province.

In a decisive step, Ramaphosa not only removed Mchunu from active duty but also announced the establishment of a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to be chaired by Acting Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga.

The commission is tasked with investigating the damning allegations, which have sent shockwaves through the political and security establishment.

Mchunu appeared before the ANC's Integrity Commission this week - one of three senior members currently under review by the party's accountability structures.

While the findings have not been made public, the move represented a significant escalation in the ANC's internal cleanup efforts.

ANC secretary-general, Fikile Mbalula, is expected to address the media on Monday to clarify party's position on Mchunu's political future and outline the expectations for all members facing serious allegations.

However, opposition parties have blasted Ramaphosa's decision to grant Mchunu special leave rather than fire him outright.

The DA, EFF, and MK Party have criticised the move as insufficient, claiming it allows the embattled minister to retain his salary and benefits while under a cloud of suspicion.

Despite the backlash, the ANC appears determined to let the legal process take its course, insisting that constitutional order and due process must guide its response, not populist calls for premature dismissal.

As the judicial inquiry prepares to get underway, the political stakes are high.

For the ANC, this is more than just about one minister - it is a litmus test of the party's ability to confront its internal demons and reclaim its moral authority.

First published by IOL

(RT.com)