According to a report by Eyewitness News on Thursday October 9, 2025, National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola has rejected claims that KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi harbours political ambitions or is seeking to lead the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, better known as the Hawks.
Masemola addressed the matter during his first day of testimony before Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee investigating corruption and interference within the police service.
He followed Mkhwanazi, who testified earlier in the week.
Masemola said Mkhwanazi is focused solely on his policing duties and has shown no interest in political involvement.
He added that suggestions linking him to the Hawks position were unfounded, pointing out that it would not be logical for Mkhwanazi to pursue the role because it offers a lower salary than his current post.
He explained that Mkhwanazi has served as a Lieutenant-General for a decade, meaning his pay grade exceeds that of the most senior deputy commissioners, making a move to head the Hawks financially disadvantageous.
“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,” Masemola said.