EFF leader Julius Malema has urged that KwaZulu-Natal police chief Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi be promoted to a national policing position, praising his strong leadership and tough stance on crime. Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, Malema said Mkhwanazi has demonstrated the ability to handle complex policing challenges and deserves greater responsibility.
“He doesn’t bow to political pressure, and he isn’t afraid of criminals,” Malema said. “South Africa needs leaders like him.”
Malema also criticized President Cyril Ramaphosa, accusing him of using commissions of inquiry to delay accountability. He pointed to unresolved political killings and alleged police ties to criminal networks as examples of justice being stalled.
“Ramaphosa is too weak to act. He knows the problems but waits for reports instead of making decisions,” Malema said.
The remarks come amid growing frustration over high-profile political murders in KwaZulu-Natal, where few arrests have been made. Civil society groups and even some ANC members have raised concerns about delayed justice and threats to whistleblowers.
Malema’s comments are likely to fuel debate over police leadership. While Mkhwanazi has not responded, he has recently been recognized for his efforts against police corruption and organized crime. Whether Ramaphosa will consider promoting him remains uncertain, but Malema insists stronger leadership is urgently needed.