Mchunu probe: Public Protector says investigation is nearing finish line - IOL
Public Protector said they were at an advanced stage in wrapping up investigations into Police Minister Senzo Mchunu.
Public Protector said its investigation into Police Minister Senzo Mchunu is nearing the finish line, while firmly rejecting suggestions that it is running a parallel probe to the Madlanga Commission.
The office is investigating allegations of executive misconduct and political interference involving Mchunu, who was placed on special leave by President Cyril Ramaphosa on July 13, 2025.
Public Protector Chief Operations Officer Advocate Nelisiwe Nkabinde said the investigation had reached an advanced stage, but new information was still emerging and required further scrutiny.
“We are at a very advanced stage, and the nature of such investigations is that as you think we are now closing, there is more information that becomes available,” Nkabinde said.
The investigation stems from a complaint lodged by the African Transformation Movement (ATM) following KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s July 6, 2025, press briefing.
Mchunu’s special leave followed allegations of corruption, fraud and political interference in policing.
Mchunu is also accused of using state resources and political power to influence decisions in the SAPS. He is suspected to be in cahoots with the big 5 cartel.
Nkabinde said the Public Protector’s investigation was distinct from the Madlanga Commission because it was initiated under the Executive Members’ Ethics Act and fell within the institution’s legal mandate.
“The matter was brought to the Public Protector in terms of the Executive Members' Ethics Act,” she said.
The office has continued seeking additional information as investigators move towards concluding the matter.
“We are following up on that information as we edge closer to the end of the investigation,” Nkabinde said.
She said investigators had received full cooperation, including from Mkhwanazi.
The Public Protector has not yet given a definitive date for the release of its findings.
