The African National Congress (ANC) has confirmed that Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has been placed on special leave from his Cabinet responsibilities.
Mchunu, accused of colluding with high-level criminal organisations, is being investigated by the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference, and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System, also known as the Madlanga Commission.
The ruling party announced that Mchunu had willingly stepped aside from his duties.
MCHUNU COOPERATES WITH ANC
The ANC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) said it had discussed the allegations surrounding Mchunu and concluded that the most appropriate course of action would be for him to continue performing organisational tasks while on special leave from his Cabinet post.
The party said it acknowledged Mchunu’s cooperation with both the Madlanga Commission and the ANC Integrity Commission, describing his conduct as consistent with the movement’s values of accountability, discipline, and respect for due process.
The ANC added that it would continue to monitor developments and that the NEC would revisit the matter should new information emerge that warrants further consideration.
“As a movement rooted in renewal and ethical leadership, the ANC reiterates that once a member is criminally charged, they voluntarily step aside from their responsibilities until the conclusion of such matters. This policy position, unique to the ANC, reflects the organisation’s enduring commitment to integrity, transparency, and accountability,” the party stated.
INVESTIGATION CONTINUES
The party’s decision comes as Mchunu handed over his electronic devices to the South African Police Service. These included his personal cellphone, laptop, tablet, and two unused mobile phones.
In a statement released on Friday, Mchunu denied the allegations against him, saying no evidence had substantiated the claims made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. He added that certain individuals were attempting to “undermine transparent and legitimate processes” currently unfolding.
In July, Mkhwanazi held a media briefing where he alleged that Mchunu interfered with sensitive police investigations and colluded with criminal syndicates to disband the KwaZulu-Natal Political Killings Task Team. Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee is also probing these claims.
