Mchunu, Cachalia salaries could have funded ’13 detectives’

Suspension of suspended police minister Senzo Mchunu for over a year, costing more than R3.16 million, could have funded around 13 experienced detectives for a year, highlighting the financial waste of the prolonged political stalemate, according to a recent analysis by the chair of the police committee in parliament, Ian Cameron.

Following Mchunu's departure, Firoz Cachalia, who took over as acting police minister on August 1, 2025, received over R3.024 million for essentially doing Mchunu's job, bringing the total amount spent on the two ministers to a staggering R6.19 million. Cameron pointed out that Mchunu's basic salary alone, paid while he was absent, equals the annual salaries of 13 experienced constable-ranked detectives.

The funds could be better utilized in addressing critical issues such as family violence, child protection, and sexual offences. President Cyril Ramaphosa placed Mchunu on special leave due to allegations of political interference in the justice system, leading to the establishment of the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. Cameron questioned the priorities of paying more than R3 million to a minister on special leave while another minister receives more than R3 million to perform the same role, emphasizing that such spending raises concerns about value for money.

He warned that special leave should not become an indefinite holiday arrangement and that the South African Police Service has repeatedly informed MPs about financial and personnel constraints. Cameron urged Ramaphosa to provide a clear explanation of the duration of the current status quo and the expected resolution, stating that each rand spent during this period is a rand that could have been allocated to strengthening police capabilities essential for public safety.