ANC’s Senzo Mchunu Vows to Clear Name at Madlanga Commission Amid Explosive Corruption Claims
Pretoria – Suspended Police Minister and ANC National Executive Committee member Senzo Mchunu has declared his eagerness to step before the Madlanga Commission to address serious accusations of ties to criminal networks and meddling in police affairs. Speaking to reporters at Kwambonambi in KwaZulu-Natal during a visit to the homestead of the late Nathi Mthethwa, Mchunu stressed the need for a fair chance to respond. “I’m not going to make any comment but like any other person, when there are allegations against you, you need to get the opportunity and I’m grateful that an opportunity is coming for me to have my say. I’m ready for my own opportunity to address the commission,” he said. This comes as the inquiry uncovers layers of alleged corruption within South Africa’s law enforcement, spotlighting Mchunu’s role in disbanding a key task team probing political killings. With the commission’s hearings in full swing, Mchunu’s testimony could be a turning point in exposing deep-rooted issues plaguing the police service.
The allegations have rocked the ANC and the nation, raising questions about political influence over policing and links to syndicates. Mchunu, placed on special leave in July 2025, faces claims from high-ranking officers that paint a picture of interference and collusion. As the Madlanga Commission digs deeper, calls grow for accountability to restore trust in the justice system. Mchunu also paid tribute to Mthethwa, calling him a dedicated ANC cadre who prioritised the party’s interests.
Mchunu’s Stance and Upcoming Testimony
Senzo Mchunu has expressed full readiness to testify at the Madlanga Commission, viewing it as his platform to counter the mounting allegations. During his media interaction in Kwambonambi, he avoided detailed comments but emphasised the importance of due process. His appearance is anticipated amid a string of revelations that have implicated him in undermining police investigations.
The commission, sitting in Pretoria, has heard damning evidence suggesting Mchunu overstepped his bounds. For instance, testimonies reveal he instructed the disbanding of the Political Killings Task Team without following legal protocols, a move that allegedly shielded certain interests. This has fueled perceptions of a compromised police force infiltrated by cartels. Mchunu’s allies, including businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, have been linked to funding ANC events, raising red flags about undue influence. Security experts note that his testimony could clarify these connections or deepen the scandal.
Mchunu’s comments came during a memorial event, where he highlighted his determination to defend his record. Analysts suggest his proactive stance might aim to rally support within the ANC, but the inquiry’s findings could sway public opinion.
Background on Allegations and Special Leave
The storm around Mchunu erupted in July 2025 when KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi publicly accused him of political interference, including the abrupt end to the task team investigating assassinations. President Cyril Ramaphosa swiftly placed Mchunu on special leave, appointing an acting minister to maintain stability in the portfolio. This followed explosive claims of collusion with crime syndicates, sabotaging probes into political violence that has claimed numerous lives in the province.
Further details emerged at the commission, with SAPS Crime Intelligence head Dumisani Khumalo testifying that Matlala, part of the notorious “Big 5” cartel, backed Mchunu’s ANC delegates. Associates like Brown Mogotsi have been accused of demanding payoffs, painting a web of corruption tying politics to organised crime. Mchunu has denied knowing some figures, but evidence suggests otherwise, including his anger over the task team’s persistence.
The special leave was framed as precautionary, allowing the inquiry to proceed without bias. Opposition parties, like the DA, have demanded transparency, arguing the saga exposes systemic failures in governance. Mchunu’s central role in these claims stems from his oversight of SAPS, where decisions allegedly favoured criminal elements over justice.
Inside the Madlanga Commission: Setup and Revelations
Established by President Ramaphosa in July 2025 following Mkhwanazi’s bombshell, the Madlanga Commission probes syndicate infiltration, political meddling, and corruption in the justice system. Chaired by Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, it began hearings in September 2025 after a brief delay. The inquiry responds to fears of South Africa becoming a “mafia state,” with testimonies uncovering demands for bribes and interference in operations.
Key witnesses, including National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola, have detailed reports submitted to Mchunu on these issues as early as January 2025. Expert input on SAPS governance highlighted Mchunu’s disregard for processes in disbanding units. The commission has connected dots to a broader criminal network, with calls for it to confront the capture of the justice system head-on. Cabinet has welcomed its start, seeing it as vital for cleaning up law enforcement.
As proceedings continue, the focus sharpens on high-level figures like Mchunu, whose actions could have enabled syndicates to thrive.
Tribute to Late Nathi Mthethwa Amid Personal Loss
During his visit to Mthethwa’s homestead, Mchunu reflected on the former ambassador’s legacy. “Nathi Mthethwa has created quite a void in our political space and within the organisation. Nathi has made an effort to understand politics and he made a contribution with an understanding that he was given an opportunity to understand in a form of political education and he played his role and did his best also as a member of the NEC and a cabinet minister. I don’t think we would want to say he owed South Africa, but he ran his course,” Mchunu stated.
Mthethwa, South Africa’s ambassador to France, was found dead on 30 September 2025 near a Paris hotel in what authorities suspect was suicide. His family rejects this, welcoming a probe into the circumstances, especially amid prior corruption claims against him. A veteran ANC politician and ex-minister, Mthethwa’s death has sparked grief and questions, with ANC leaders visiting his family to offer support. French officials are investigating, noting an apologetic message to his wife before the incident.
Mchunu’s homage portrayed Mthethwa as a selfless leader who advanced through education and service, leaving a gap in the party.
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