Mantashe supports police shake-up — ‘Those accused must answer’

Mantashe

Cape Town – Acting Police Minister Gwede Mantashe on Thursday called on lawmakers to support the judicial commission of inquiry into police corruption, saying it would give those implicated a chance to respond to the allegations and clear their names.

Mantashe was addressing the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) for the first time in his acting role, after Police Minister Senzo Mchunu was placed on special leave.

According to EWN, he used the opportunity to highlight the importance of the inquiry, which follows serious allegations of corruption and interference within the police, made by KwaZulu-Natal Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

“These allegations are deeply concerning, and we welcome the announcement by his excellency, Cyril Ramaphosa, of a judicial commission of inquiry to thoroughly investigate the matter raised,” the report quoted Matashe as saying.

Ramaphosa announced the commission on Sunday.

Speaking in the National Assembly during his budget vote on Wednesday, the president emphasised the importance of due process and justified the establishment of a commission of inquiry into the claims of corruption and interference in the police service.

“These allegations are serious. They are also untested,” he said.

“It is therefore necessary that we establish the facts through an independent, credible and thorough process so that we can ensure accountability and safeguard public confidence in the police service.”

He rejected criticism that commissions of inquiry are ineffective, noting that they serve to uncover facts and ensure accountability.

Ramaphosa warned that firing Mchunu without verified evidence would be unfair and set a dangerous precedent.

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