Senzo Mchunu Returns To ANC Frontline As Election Campaign Plans Intensify

Suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has stepped back into the political spotlight, confirming he will participate in the African National Congress (ANC) campaign ahead of the upcoming local government elections.

His return comes after a five-month period of voluntary “special leave” that began in November 2025, following serious corruption allegations against him.

Mchunu made his first public appearance since his leave at a funeral in Richards Bay on Sunday, where he delivered a eulogy for ANC member Bhekabathethwa Mthethwa.

Senzo Mchunu Resumes ANC Duties Amid Ongoing Investigations

Mchunu has resumed his responsibilities as a member of the ANC National Executive Committee (NEC), despite continued scrutiny from the Madlanga Commission and a Parliamentary Ad Hoc Committee.

The investigations stem from claims made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who alleged unlawful actions linked to the disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT), alongside broader corruption accusations.

Mchunu has rejected the allegations, insisting he did not interfere in police operations and maintaining that his directive did not dissolve the unit. He has also challenged Mkhwanazi to present evidence supporting the claims.

His return follows communication to ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula confirming his readiness to resume duties after preparing for his appearances before both investigative bodies.

Earlier, President Cyril Ramaphosa placed Mchunu on suspension, appointing Firoz Cachalia as acting Police Minister.

ANC Election Strategy Boosted By Mchunu’s Campaign Role

According to his spokesperson, Sthembiso Mshengu, Mchunu will now actively campaign for the ANC in the lead-up to the local government elections.

“Indeed, he will be involved in the election campaign for the forthcoming local government elections. He is an elected member of the National Working Committee (NWC) and the NEC, and is deployed in a Province like all. He is also a member of a subcommittee of the NEC on Safety and Security,” said Mshengu.

On questions about a possible bid for ANC leadership ahead of the 2027 elective conference, Mshengu indicated that such matters would be addressed closer to the time.

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The ANC has yet to formally comment on Mchunu’s return. Requests for comment from both Mbalula and party spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri went unanswered, although the party previously stated the matter was under consideration.

A senior ANC NEC member, speaking anonymously, suggested Mchunu’s return could strengthen the party’s campaign, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal.

“It is good that he is back so that we can have numbers ahead of the elections. He is from KwaZulu-Natal and it is one of the provinces where we have difficulties. His return and being deployed in the province will assist because he is a former provincial leader,” said the source.

Political Analysts Warn Of Voter Backlash And Strategic Motives

Political analyst Professor Sipho Seepe cautioned that Mchunu’s return could be poorly received by the electorate.

“Should the ANC accede to Mchunu’s request, it would be tantamount to giving the middle finger to the voting public. This could be seen as a mark of political arrogance and a disconnect with the masses on the part of the ANC leadership,” he said.

Another analyst, Sandile Swana, argued that Mchunu’s re-entry into active politics may be driven by long-term considerations.

“That will also allow him to have power and access to resources,” he said, adding that Mchunu wants to use the political machinery of the ANC to protect himself.