Police Minister Senzo Mchunu is at the center of a major political storm following contradictory statements regarding his relationship with Brown Mogotsi, a politically connected businessman reportedly linked to criminal syndicates. Initially, Mchunu told Parliament on March 5 that he did not know Mogotsi, referring to him dismissively as “some fellow.” However, Mchunu later admitted in a July 9 statement that he had met Mogotsi, describing him as “just a comrade, not an associate,” and insisted he had never requested or received anything from him. Policing expert Professor Jean Steyn characterized Mchunu’s reversal as “troubling” and indicative of possible intentional obfuscation, calling for further investigation into their ties[1].
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has responded by formally laying charges of fraud against Mchunu, accusing him of having lied to Parliament—a criminal act under South African law. DA Deputy Chief Whip Baxolile Nodada stated that Mchunu’s reversal directly contradicted his sworn testimony and amounted to deliberate misleading of Parliament. The DA also submitted a complaint to the Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests, and both DA and ActionSA have called for an urgent parliamentary debate on corruption in the police service. Parliamentary Speaker Thoko Didiza, however, assigned portfolio committees to urgently consider the allegations instead of allowing a debate, as the claims remain unsubstantiated at this stage[3][5].
The controversy has intensified following allegations by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who accused Mchunu of obstructing investigations into political assassinations and receiving illicit payments from a corruption suspect. Mkhwanazi also claimed that Mchunu ordered the disbandment of the province’s Political Killings Task Team and transferred sensitive dockets, effectively neutralizing key investigations. President Cyril Ramaphosa has faced increasing pressure to act on these allegations, though thus far he is expected only to consult those directly implicated. The allegations have sparked concern about possible unrest in KwaZulu-Natal, evoking memories of the deadly July 2021 riots[2][4].
Mchunu has vehemently denied all allegations, labeling them as “baseless” and the product of politically motivated attacks. He maintains that he has no improper association with Mogotsi or any underworld figure. The matter is now under formal investigation, with several parliamentary committees tasked with probing the claims. The case has highlighted longstanding concerns about governance and impunity within South Africa’s law enforcement and political institutions[6].
References
- [1] Senzo Mchunu’s change of tune on Brown Mogotsi sparks calls for inquiry – IOL
- [2] President Ramaphosa faces pressure amid allegations against Police Minister and tensions brewing in KZN – IOL
- [3] DA lays fraud charge against Senzo Mchunu – Polity
- [4] South Africa’s Police Minister Accused of Collusion with Assassination Gangs – DNE Africa
- [5] DA lays criminal charges and ethics complaint against Police Minister Mchunu – DA
- [6] Discussion | SAPS chiefs clash over task team, alleged interference – eNCA