"The Rot is Too Deep": Mkhwanazi's Damning Testimony Rocks Parliament

KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

By Mpho Dube, Editor-in-Chief of The Azanian

The South African Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee investigating corruption and political interference within the South African Police Service (SAPS) has been left reeling after explosive testimony from KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

KZN's top cop words painted a damning picture of a police service compromised by corruption, political meddling, and systemic failures.

Lt-General Mkhwanazi's testimony was a bombshell, revealing that Crime Intelligence had been leasing safe houses to influential individuals. He also claimed that money from the police's covert fund was used to build a perimeter wall at the home of the late ambassador to France and former police minister, Nathi Mthethwa. "That was money from Crime Intelligence... nobody was held accountable, but reports are there," Mkhwanazi said.

The commission's chairperson, Molapi Lekganyane, confirmed that the committee had received Mkhwanazi's statement and would investigate the allegations. The EFF's Julius Malema demanded that the committee take action, saying, "If you're going to allow them to ask questions, we will also ask questions. Don't do that. We agreed that each member is going to get 30 minutes tomorrow."

Mkhwanazi also spoke about the culture of fear and intimidation within SAPS, where employees who spoke out against corrupt practices were silenced and even threatened with losing their jobs. He revealed that officers who uncovered critical evidence in high-profile cases were sidelined, while those aligned with senior figures were rewarded.

The commission's investigation has also uncovered allegations of political interference in police operations. Mkhwanazi claimed that he had been instructed to disband the Political Killings Task Team, which was investigating politically motivated murders in KwaZulu-Natal. He refused to comply, citing the team's good work and the need to bring perpetrators to justice.

The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry was established to investigate allegations of corruption and malpractice within SAPS. Mkhwanazi's testimony has been a crucial part of the commission's investigation, providing detailed evidence of the alleged corruption and political interference.

The commission's findings could have significant implications for SAPS and the ANC. If the allegations are proven true, it could lead to a major overhaul of the police service and accountability for those involved.

Mkhwanazi's bravery and determination to expose the truth have been widely praised. Many have taken to social media to express their support and admiration for his courage. "The public's response to Mr. Mkhwanazi's testimony has been overwhelmingly positive," said Justice Madlanga, the chairperson of the commission.

The Ad Hoc Committee will continue to investigate the allegations, with Mkhwanazi's testimony serving as a crucial part of the inquiry. The committee's findings will be closely watched, and the public is eagerly awaiting the outcome.

As the investigation continues, one thing is clear: the rot in SAPS goes deep, and it will take more than just words to fix it. The public demands action, and those implicated will have to account for their actions.

The investigation continues, and the public awaits the outcome, hoping for justice and accountability.