Senzo Mchunu Admits Breaking Protocol When He Disbanded Political Killings Task Team

Suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has acknowledged that he broke protocol when he ordered the disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) without first receiving a briefing from the National Police Commissioner.

Testifying before the Madlanga Commission, Mchunu confirmed that there had never been an agreement within police management regarding the decision.

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He issued a directive for the “immediate disbandment” of the PKTT in December, a move that later became central to the fiery briefing delivered by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi in July.

Under questioning, the former minister conceded he acted without following the established chain of command.

Protocol Breach Acknowledged at the Madlanga Commission

Commission Chairperson Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga pressed Mchunu on who should have briefed him before such a decision was taken.

MADLANGA: “Who is the functionary that would have been placed to brief you? That is a very simple question, Minister, please.”

MCHUNU: “It is the National Commissioner.”

MADLANGA: “We all know you took the decision without asking him to brief you on whether the PKTT should be disbanded; is that correct?”

MCHUNU: “That is correct.”

The PKTT, established to tackle politically motivated killings in KwaZulu-Natal, has been at the centre of escalating tensions between the ministry and police leadership.

Mchunu Set to Continue Testimony

Mchunu is expected to return to the witness stand on Friday morning as the inquiry continues to probe the circumstances surrounding the controversial directive.

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