More haste, less speed — the search for new SAPS leadership
Promoting top SAPS leaders before the Madlanga Commission concludes its work is premature. South Africa needs an independent, well-resourced Chapter 9 body to fight corruption, not executive shortcuts.
South Africa's National Commissioner of the SAPS will retire in April 2027, leaving a vacancy for the head of the Hawks or Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI). Acting Minister of Police favours General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi for the post, while others feel he should be appointed to a more senior position. The Madlanga Commission, which has been investigating corruption in the criminal justice system, will conclude its work in January 2027, but its findings are not binding.
The law requires good human resource management and promoting a high standard of professional ethics. The appointment process for the DPCI differs from that of the DSO, with the latter having a more independent selection process. The acting minister still needs to present his evidence to the Madlanga Commission, which could provide damning evidence against Mkhwanazi. Therefore, it is premature to consider Mkhwanazi for any promotion within the SAPS.
Written by urgent.news from Daily Maverick's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
