Despite a stormy appearance before Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee on Police Leadership, acting National Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has made it clear that he still wants the top job permanently.
Mkhwanazi, who has been serving in an acting capacity amid growing scrutiny over the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) leadership crisis, appeared unfazed by the sharp questioning from MPs. Sources close to the committee said his composure and conviction left even some of his critics acknowledging his leadership ambition.
“He made no secret of it — he wants to lead the SAPS permanently,” a committee insider revealed. “But the committee is deeply divided, especially after revelations concerning Lieutenant-General Shadrack Sibiya’s alleged misconduct surfaced during recent hearings.”
The Ad Hoc Committee, chaired by Molapi Soviet Lekganyane, has been investigating governance and integrity issues within SAPS following mounting reports of internal rivalries and questionable appointments. Mkhwanazi’s leadership aspirations have now placed him directly in the spotlight — particularly as the committee weighs the suitability of several senior officers for permanent appointment.
Observers note that his determination to ascend to the commissioner’s post underscores the intense power struggle within SAPS, a structure long criticized for instability and political interference.
Whether Mkhwanazi’s confidence will sway Parliament’s final recommendation remains uncertain. However, his unwavering declaration — that he remains ready and willing to serve as National Commissioner — signals that the battle for control of South Africa’s police leadership is far from over.
