Top Police Chief Masemola Confirms Mkhwanazi Has No Political Ambitions

National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola has firmly denied claims that KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Provincial Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi harbours political ambitions.

Speaking during his first day of testimony before the Parliamentary Ad Hoc Committee investigating police corruption and interference, Masemola addressed speculation surrounding Mkhwanazi’s career intentions.

“He definitely has no interest in politics. He’s just a cop doing his work,” Masemola told the committee, reinforcing Mkhwanazi’s focus on his policing duties.

Hawks Leadership Rumours Dismissed

Masemola also refuted suggestions that Mkhwanazi is eyeing the top position at the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, commonly known as the Hawks.

He explained that the rumours, which have been linked to Mkhwanazi’s conflict with Deputy Police Commissioner for Crime Detection Shadrack Sibiya, are unfounded.

“Whoever gets appointed will go to the salary notch of Lieutenant-General Deputy Commissioner Francina Vuma, who is the most senior now,” Masemola said.

“When you get to Mkhwanazi, he has been a Lieutenant-General for ten years, which means his notch is far more than the most senior Deputy. Practically, he can’t be applying for a post where his salary will take a dip.”

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Masemola’s testimony came immediately after Mkhwanazi appeared before the committee on Tuesday and Wednesday, as the inquiry continues to investigate alleged corruption and undue influence within the police force.

The commissioner’s statements are seen as an effort to clarify internal misunderstandings and quell speculation about the ambitions of senior officers in the KZN police hierarchy.

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