By Celani Sikhakhane
- KZN Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi is being investigated by Ipid, but supporters say it’s a political move to block his promotion.
- The IFP and Popcru believe his tough stance on crime has made him enemies among corrupt politicians and senior police officers.
KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi is facing an investigation by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid), but his supporters believe it is a politically motivated attempt to block his promotion.
Ipid has given Mkhwanazi until Wednesday, 20 March, to submit a statement regarding claims that he interfered in the arrest of a senior correctional services official last year. The complaint was made anonymously.
The probe has sparked a backlash, with political parties and unions rallying behind Mkhwanazi.
The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) in the KZN Legislature claims that politicians who feel threatened by Mkhwanazi’s tough stance on crime are trying to remove him from the force.
“There are people who know that once he is investigated and suspended, his chances of promotion will be slim,” said IFP provincial spokesperson for community safety and liaison, Blessed Gwala.
He said some individuals, fearing Mkhwanazi’s crackdown on crime, would rather weaken the police service to protect their illegal activities.
Mkhwanazi himself believes political interference is behind the allegations.
His team has handled high-profile cases beyond KZN and arrested senior police officers involved in crime.
Popcru president Thulani Ngwenya said the timing of the investigation raises suspicions.
“The timing makes it hard to believe there isn’t another motive at play,” said Ngwenya.
He warned that the allegations could destabilise officers already working under difficult conditions. He also pointed to internal politics within the police force, as the selection of a new national police commissioner draws closer.
Mkhwanazi has denied all allegations, saying he is being targeted by criminals with ties to powerful figures in the country.
Pictured above: KZN Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi and Premier Thami Ntuli at a government crime summit.
Image source: Office of the KZN Premier
