Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has come under heavy scrutiny after ordering the disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team. The unit was originally created to investigate a wave of political assassinations, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal, where dozens of politicians and community leaders have been killed over the years.
In his directive, dated December 2024, Mchunu argued that the task team was “no longer required” and that it was not adding any real value to the South African Police Service (SAPS). He explained that the decision was part of a wider restructuring process aimed at improving policing operations nationwide.
However, this move has raised serious concerns. Critics, including political analysts and opposition parties, believe it was a reckless decision, especially with local elections approaching in 2026. They fear that political violence could escalate without a dedicated unit focusing on these crimes.
The situation intensified when KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi alleged that the minister shut down the task team to protect powerful politicians and criminal networks. He claimed the team had uncovered deep connections between organised crime and political figures. According to him, more than 120 investigation dockets were removed from the unit after Mchunu’s directive.
Mchunu has denied these claims, insisting the move was purely administrative. But questions remain over whether the disbandment was about reforming the police or silencing investigations that threatened influential individuals. For now, the decision continues to spark debate across the country.