Support for KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, is gaining momentum amid the ongoing probe into allegations against him, with some of his supporters claiming the charges were politically motivated.
Such was the groundswell of support for Mkhwanazi that those in his corner have arranged a Durban march in April, which will include support from political parties and rights groups, to make their feelings known.
Earlier in March, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) announced an investigation into Mkhwanazi, following accusations that he interfered with the arrest of a senior Correctional Services official in Richards Bay in 2023.
In response to IPID’s announcement, a group of concerned Durban residents organised a march in Mkhwanazi's support.
Businessman Ntokozo Mkhize, one of the organisers, confirmed that plans for the pro-Mkhwanazi march were set for April 11 in Durban.
“Mkhwanazi is being persecuted in broad daylight, and we, as residents, won’t allow this to happen. We are rallying support for him during this difficult time. We know how this plays out: an investigation will lead to his suspension and eventual dismissal. That’s why we’re standing up now,” Mkhize said.
He further claimed that the plot to remove Mkhwanazi was allegedly orchestrated by corrupt government politicians who want to silence him before he exposed their wrongdoing.
“They want Mkhwanazi out because he threatens to reveal their corruption. And knowing politicians, they won’t stop until they succeed. But we, as concerned citizens, will protect him. We’re not saying he shouldn’t be investigated, everyone must answer to the law. However, we demand that no politician interfere with his investigation,” Mkhize stated.
Mkhize said the investigation against Mkhwanazi was likely to hamper police work in KZN.
“Mkhwanazi should be focusing on fighting crime, not these lousy investigations. This would demoralise the police who are getting orders from him. We all need to stand up and defend our commissioner from his obscure attackers,” said Mkhize.
The march will start at Curries Fountain Stadium and end at the Provincial Police Headquarters on Braam Fisher Avenue in Durban Central.
Mkhize also noted that political parties like the EFF, civil society groups, and community organizations have given their backing to the march.
Popcru, the largest police union, has strongly defended Mkhwanazi, vowing to shield him from what it calls "persecution".
Nthabeleng Molefe, provincial secretary of Popcru in KZN, expressed disappointment with the IPID’s actions, accusing the watchdog of ulterior motives to undermine Mkhwanazi’s efforts in tackling crime.
“We’re disappointed by IPID’s actions. It’s clear they have an agenda to persecute Mkhwanazi and distract him from fighting crime,” Molefe said. “The IPID has become a spokesperson for criminals. Their actions will hinder police efforts in the battle against crime.”
Molefe also called on the IPID to focus on its intended mandate and avoid becoming ineffective.
Originally, the IPID had stated that the investigation into Mkhwanazi was initiated by Police Minister Senzo Mchunu.
However, it later backtracked, explaining that the investigation followed an anonymous complaint from the public.
“The investigation is still in its early stages,” the IPID clarified, adding that no further comment would be made until it was completed.
Reports from the Sunday Tribune suggest that Mkhwanazi could also face scrutiny over allegations of police brutality in his handling of crime suspects.
Several political parties, including the EFF, uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP), ATM, and the IFP, have voiced their support for the police commissioner.
IPID spokesperson Lizzy Suping stated that the unit would not comment further until the investigation is concluded.
“The SAPS is aware of the IPID’s process and will await its outcome. The provincial commissioner is fully cooperating with the investigation and remains focused on providing leadership in the fight against crime in the province,” Suping said.
Meanwhile, Mkhwanazi has consistently maintained that he was innocent and was fully prepared to cooperate with the investigation.
Prominent violence monitor and author Mary De Haas said the police department was battling long-running infighting between warring factions.
On the Mkhwanazi matter, she called for a fair investigation.
Kamogelo Mogotsi, spokesperson for police minister Mchunu said: “IPID would be able to comment, the Minister is not aware of the aspects of their investigation.”
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