A significant development has occurred in the investigation of political killings in KwaZulu-Natal, as 121 police dockets are being returned to the specialized Political Killings Task Team. These case files had previously been removed from the unit, sparking allegations of political interference.
The controversy began in July when KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi publicly accused Police Minister Senzo Mchunu of interfering with police operations. Mkhwanazi claimed the minister had ordered both the disbandment of the high-profile task team and the removal of these 121 dockets from their investigation.
The Political Killings Task Team was originally established in 2019 following recommendations from the 2016 Moerane Commission, which investigated the root causes of political violence in KwaZulu-Natal. The team was specifically tasked with investigating unresolved politically motivated murders in the province.
Mkhwanazi, known for his strong anti-corruption stance, characterized the removal of the dockets as obstruction of justice. His allegations prompted national concern and led to President Cyril Ramaphosa announcing a judicial commission of inquiry into the matter.
Police Minister Mchunu has denied all allegations, calling them “baseless,” but has been placed on special leave pending the outcome of investigations. The return of the dockets to the specialized task team represents a significant development in this ongoing investigation into both the political killings and the alleged interference in their investigation.