KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli has confirmed that provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi will remain in his post after his contract was officially renewed. This decision comes after concerns were raised about delays in finalising Mkhwanazi’s contract, which was due to expire at the end of March.
Ntuli announced the renewal on Saturday, stating that the national commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, had written to him and he had given his formal concurrence. According to Ntuli, provincial police commissioners are appointed by the national commissioner in consultation with provincial premiers, and this consultation took place in December 2024, when Masemola indicated his intention to renew Mkhwanazi’s contract.
Background on the Contract Renewal
Mkhwanazi, known for his tough stance on crime, had expressed his willingness to serve another five-year term. He was the last witness to testify as the Parliament’s ad hoc committee wrapped up its investigation into alleged rot within the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Ntuli had previously expressed concerns about the delays in finalising Mkhwanazi’s contract, stating that certainty was necessary for stability and security in the province. He emphasized that stability and security give confidence to investors, support economic growth, and create opportunities for the people of KwaZulu-Natal.
Reaction to the Renewal
The renewal of Mkhwanazi’s contract has been welcomed by many, who see it as a positive step in the fight against crime in the province. Some of the key points to note about the renewal include:
- Mkhwanazi’s contract was due to expire at the end of March, and the renewal provides certainty and stability for the province.
- The national commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, had indicated his intention to renew Mkhwanazi’s contract in December 2024.
- Ntuli had given his formal concurrence to the renewal, and the contract has now been officially renewed.
For more information on the role of the SAPS in maintaining law and order,
