KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has confirmed that provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi will remain in his post after his contract was officially renewed. The renewal had been finalised, with the national commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, writing to Ntuli to inform him of the decision.
Ntuli announced the news on Saturday, while speaking on the sidelines of the crime-fighting imbizo in KwaCaluza, aimed at strengthening efforts against fighting crime and improving community safety. He had previously expressed concerns about delays in finalising Mkhwanazi’s contract, which was due to expire at the end of March.
Background to the Contract Renewal
Mkhwanazi, known for his tough stance on crime, had told Parliament’s ad hoc committee that he was willing to serve another five-year term. He was the last witness to testify as the committee wrapped up its investigation into alleged rot within the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Ntuli clarified that provincial police commissioners are appointed by the national commissioner in consultation with provincial premiers. This consultation took place in December 2024, when Masemola indicated his intention to renew Mkhwanazi’s contract. Ntuli said he had given his concurrence to the renewal of the contract, citing the importance of stability and security in the province.
Importance of Stability and Security
According to Ntuli, stability and security in any province give confidence to investors, support economic growth, and create opportunities for the people. He stressed that the contract was set to expire at the end of March and that certainty was necessary to avoid uncertainty, which is not a good space for the people of KwaZulu-Natal.
Ntuli had followed up on the matter and met Masemola in Cape Town, describing the discussions as positive. However, he expressed concern about the lack of formalisation as the deadline approached. The South African Government website provides more information on the appointment of provincial police commissioners.
The following are some of the key points related to the contract renewal:
- Mkhwanazi’s contract was renewed for another term
- The national commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, wrote to Ntuli to inform him of the decision
- Ntuli had given his concurrence to the renewal of the contract
- The contract renewal is expected to bring stability and security to the province
For more information on the South African Police Service, visit the SAPS website.
