Cape Town – Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has broken his silence following explosive corruption allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
Speaking at the ANC’s Musa Dladla region Mandela Day celebrations, Mchunu said he would present his side to the judicial commission of inquiry established by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
This marks his first public appearance since being placed on special leave.
Mchunu strongly denied the allegations and stressed the importance of due process, saying he welcomed the commission as a necessary platform to respond.
“These allegations were not only against me. They were against a range of other departments and also the justice system as a whole,” Mchunu said.
[WATCH]
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu says he is patiently waiting for the Judicial Commission to provide him an opportunity to share his side. This comes after allegations by KZN Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi linking him to corruption. pic.twitter.com/UpNZbQrxiZ— SABC News (@SABCNews) July 18, 2025
“In South Africa, we will always treasure and insist that you hear one side and then the other.”
He criticised what he called a dangerous trend of individuals acting as both accuser and judge.
“The day one person stands on a podium and says, ‘I suspect so and so of wrongdoing,’ then investigates, prosecutes, and finally declares guilt — that would be the end of South Africa. It would crash and destroy the dream we’ve all struggled for: justice,” he said.
Mchunu added that, despite the seriousness of the case, it was essential to allow both sides to be heard before conclusions are drawn.
[WATCH]
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu maintains his innocence and denies General Mkhwanazi’s corruption allegations. pic.twitter.com/zENPl6XWx9— SABC News (@SABCNews) July 18, 2025
“From where I stand, I am innocent of those allegations and I deny them very strongly. I’ve engaged lawyers and the matter is on course,”he said.
He also appealed to the media and the public to exercise patience and fairness.
“Let’s wait for the commission. My feeling is that the media has already passed judgment without hearing the other side. But let’s wait for the day,” Mchunu said, adding that he fully supports the president’s decision and is prepared to cooperate fully.
