Ramaphosa suspended police minister Senzo Mchunu after serious allegations linked him to criminal networks. The announcement came during a live address on Sunday, 13 July. President Cyril Ramaphosa said intelligence reports showed Mchunu had ongoing contact with individuals under investigation. These ties, he said, threatened national security and undermined public confidence in policing.
Ramaphosa stated that the dismissal was necessary to protect the integrity of government institutions and uphold the standards expected of those in public office.
“This was not an easy decision,” he said. “But the information presented to me raised serious concerns. I had to act quickly in the public interest.”
Criminal Allegations Trigger Dismissal
The president confirmed he received credible intelligence showing the police minister’s connections with suspected criminals. Ramaphosa suspended police minister Mchunu to reinforce accountability within the security cluster. He said the decision followed consultations with senior figures in law enforcement and the intelligence community.
Although specific details were not made public, Ramaphosa stressed that the seriousness of the evidence left no room for hesitation. He reiterated that his administration would not tolerate any association—real or perceived—between government officials and criminal actors.
Acting Minister Appointed
After Ramaphosa suspended the police minister, he appointed Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga as acting Minister of Police. Her role is to ensure continuity and oversight during this transitional period. Ramaphosa clarified that the dismissal does not imply guilt but was essential to restore faith in the police ministry.
“This decision is about accountability and trust. No one is above the law,” Ramaphosa said during his address.
The president also warned that even the perception of misconduct could damage institutional integrity.
Leadership Integrity Under Scrutiny
Ramaphosa’s decision to suspend the police minister sends a clear signal about his commitment to ethical leadership. The move comes at a time when South Africans are demanding greater transparency and accountability from public officials. As the investigation continues, the presidency has pledged to keep the public informed.
By acting decisively, Ramaphosa suspended police minister Mchunu not only to protect the state’s integrity but also to strengthen confidence in South Africa’s democratic institutions.
