As South Africans reflected on the end of 2024, few anticipated the upheaval that would grip the nation’s law enforcement in 2025. A year after a controversial letter from then-Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, questions remain about the disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) and its impact on public trust.
Mchunu’s Directive and Immediate Fallout
The core of the current crisis stems from a letter issued by Mchunu on December 31, 2024, announcing the disbandment of the PKTT. This decision followed a period of internal deliberation for Mchunu, beginning after a meeting on November 21 with deputy ministers. He stated to the ad hoc committee in October that he used the time after December 28th to “summarising in my head and thinking what I would settle with finally, which then gave rise to me writing that letter.”
Mchunu justified the disbandment by citing budgetary concerns, complaints received from individuals including Mary de Haas and Patricia Mashale, media reports, and a complaint from MP Fadiel Adams. He maintained that the PKTT was no longer necessary and did not add value to policing in South Africa.
Allegations of Improper Influence
The aftermath of Mchunu’s letter saw KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi publicly allege that the PKTT’s disbandment was intended to protect criminals. Mkhwanazi, following unsuccessful attempts to discuss the matter with Mchunu, revealed an investigation uncovering a syndicate involving politicians, law enforcement officials, and even members of the judiciary, allegedly controlled by drug cartels and businesspeople.
Mchunu has denied these allegations.
Procedural Concerns and Current Status
The decision to disband the PKTT without consultation sparked widespread criticism. Former Police Minister Bheki Cele testified before parliament in October, stating, “I don’t remember the team being disbanded until I saw the letter that was written on the 31st of December.” Cele argued that any such decision should have involved the IMC that established the PKTT and relevant departments.
As a result of the controversy, Mchunu has been placed on special leave, with Firoz Cachalia serving as acting police minister. Mchunu has also stepped back from his duties with the ANC pending a resolution. The PKTT continues its work, with police management considering expanding its operations beyond KwaZulu-Natal. The Madlanga Commission has submitted a preliminary report, the findings of which will not be made public until next year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the disbandment of the PKTT?
According to Mchunu’s letter to the national commissioner on December 31, 2024, the PKTT was disbanded because he believed its continued existence was no longer necessary and that it did not add value to policing in South Africa. He also cited budgetary issues and complaints from various individuals.
What allegations were made by KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi?
Mkhwanazi alleged that Mchunu disbanded the PKTT to protect criminals and revealed an investigation into a syndicate involving politicians, law enforcement, and the judiciary, allegedly controlled by drug cartels and businesspeople.
What is the current status of Senzo Mchunu?
Mchunu has been placed on special leave as Police Minister and has also taken time off from his ANC duties until he is cleared of wrongdoing.
Given the ongoing investigations and the sensitive nature of the allegations, what steps are necessary to restore public trust in South Africa’s law enforcement agencies?
