In a surprising development, KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has officially withdrawn his serious allegations against former Police Minister Bheki Cele, acknowledging that the claims were based on incorrect information.
This dramatic moment occurred during a tense session of Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee on Law Enforcement Accountability, where Cele was testifying under oath.
Mkhwanazi had previously accused Cele of receiving money from controversial businessman Vusimuzi Cat Matlala, citing alleged banking details shared between the two. However, on Wednesday, evidence leader Advocate Norman Arendse revealed that the forensic team had misidentified the account number. The team got the bank account number wrong, Arendse stated. It was not a reference to Minister Cele. The allegation is withdrawn with apologies from Lieutenant-General Mkhwanazi.
Cele, remaining composed, acknowledged knowing Matlala but denied any business association. I have no financial relationship with him, Cele stated. I’ve never received money from Matlala.
The withdrawal has sent shockwaves through the committee, which is investigating deep-rooted corruption and political interference within the South African Police Service (SAPS). While some Members of Parliament welcomed the correction, others questioned the credibility of Mkhwanazi’s broader testimony.
As the inquiry continues, this retraction represents a pivotal moment—one that could reshape the narrative surrounding SAPS leadership and accountability.