Ramaphosa signals Hawks top job for Mkhwanazi as Cabinet decision looms

Cabinet will deliberate on the appointment of Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi as head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, colloquially referred to as the Hawks, with an official announcement forthcoming once a decision has been made, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced. Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia forwarded a Cabinet memorandum last week advocating for Mkhwanazi's appointment to the national head of the Hawks.

The memorandum will be submitted to the earliest possible Cabinet session. Mkhwanazi gained prominence following his July 2025 media briefing, where he alleged the infiltration of a sophisticated criminal syndicate into South Africa's criminal justice system. Subsequent to his media appearance, Ramaphosa established the Madlanga Commission, leading to the arrest of several law enforcement officials.

During a visit to the Professional Soccer League (PSL), Ramaphosa expressed optimism that Mkhwanazi might secure the top position, stating, "The name of General Mkhwanazi has been put forward; it will go to Cabinet, Cabinet will be meeting, and when Cabinet has decided, the announcement will be made, and that is a Cabinet process."

He further emphasized that the Cabinet will not disclose its decision beforehand. Various organizations, including Forum4SA and ActionSA, have expressed support for Mkhwanazi's appointment as head of the Hawks, citing his 2025 revelations as a catalyst for investigations that resulted in arrests, suspensions, and dismissals of senior police officials.

They argue that Mkhwanazi's leadership could be pivotal in combating organized crime and corruption, potentially restoring public trust in law enforcement institutions. Following his July 2025 media briefing, there have been calls to extend Mkhwanazi's mandate beyond KwaZulu-Natal to further aid the country's fight against organized crime.