JOHANNEBSURG - President Cyril Ramaphosa has spoken out about his inaction against suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, who has been implicated in the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
He said he is well aware of the criticism he has faced, but maintains that he will act once the commission has concluded in three months.
It is then that he will respond to all the recommendations, which will be implemented.
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Ramaphosa has scolded the impatience of the public, emphasising that many want to see what happens to the big fish without considering the steps that need to be taken.
“That whole process is part of our justice system and we don’t just skop and donner. I wish we did, but our laws do not allow us to do that,” Ramaphosa said.
KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi made explosive allegations against Mchunu, accusing him of political interference in key investigations.
He revealed that evidence found on the phone of accused underworld figure Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala links the minister to unauthorised communications through an associate, Brown Mogotsi.
Mchunu was also accused of ordering the disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT), a move which National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola deemed an encroachment on his mandate.
But Mchunu, who has appeared before the Madlanga Commission, defended his decision to disband the PKTT, saying it had reached the end of its lifespan.
READ | Mchunu to explain directive to disband PKTT at Madlanga Inquiry
He confirmed there was no meeting, no briefing and no formal engagement before issuing the directive.
He also distanced himself from Mogotsi and Matlala.
As the commission continues, Mchunu is yet to return to the commission for its second phase.
Ramaphosa has since been issued with an interim report, which he says he has studied and accepted the recommendations.
A team led by Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia and National Commissioner Fannie Masemola, will investigate specific individuals mentioned in the interim report.