As a concerned and engaged South African citizen, I feel compelled to speak up in support and defence of a man who has proven time and again that he is not only committed to serving the people of KwaZulu-Natal, but is a shining example of what ethical, courageous, and hands-on policing leadership should look like in our country.
I am talking about none other than Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the Provincial Police Commissioner of KZN.
In a country where crime continues to strangle communities, corruption too often infiltrates law enforcement ranks. And citizens feel unsafe in their homes and on their streets. It is rare — and refreshing — to find a leader like Mkhwanazi, who has refused to sit in an air-conditioned office while the people he swore to protect live in fear.
Leads from the front
For years, Mkhwanazi has led from the front in KwaZulu-Natal. This is a province that has faced some of the most daunting challenges in terms of crime and unrest. From political killings to gang violence, taxi wars to mass looting during the 2021 riots, he has been in the thick of it all. He was not hiding behind bureaucracy, but taking action where it matters most.
It is no coincidence that many KZN residents express high regard and trust for Mkhwanazi. He has built a reputation for cracking down on crime syndicates, ensuring police visibility. A reputation for holding his own members accountable when necessary.
He is known for conducting raids personally and for walking the streets alongside his officers. His leadership style is hands-on and impactful. That is the kind of leadership we desperately need in every province in this country.
IPID investigation must be grounded in facts
Now, with news that IPID (Independent Police Investigative Directorate) has launched an investigation into Mkhwanazi for allegedly interfering with an arrest, many are quick to judge or cast aspersions.
Let us be clear: No one is above the law. And investigations must be allowed to proceed without obstruction or prejudice. However, it is equally important that public opinion be grounded in facts, not assumptions.
Firstly, it’s worth noting that this investigation was sparked by an anonymous tip-off. It was not sparked by any formal complaint from an affected party.
While anonymous complaints have their place in whistleblower protections, they can also be weaponised in political games, or by those seeking to undermine effective leadership.
IPID ‘error’ casts new light to the saga
Secondly, it has been confirmed that a letter suggesting that police minister requested the investigation was issued in error. This admission from IPID matters, because it removes any direct ministerial instruction from the equation. It is reinforcing that the complaint came from an anonymous source. That it did not come from within the official ranks of government.
Thirdly, this investigation is still in its infancy. IPID has not concluded any findings, and no wrongdoing has been proven. Yet the mere act of investigation can cast a shadow over a leader’s reputation. This especially in a political and media environment that thrives on controversy. We, as citizens, must be cautious about jumping to conclusions before all facts are presented.
Sadly, South Africa has a history of seeing its most effective public servants attacked or side-lined when they step on wrong toes. We have seen how whistle-blowers and ethical officials are targeted for doing their jobs too well. Is Mkhwanazi facing similar backlash because of his commitment to clean policing and fearless leadership?
Mkhwanazi has ruffled feathers
Let’s not forget, he has ruffled feathers. He has tackled organised crime, exposed internal corruption. And he has disrupted comfortable arrangements between criminal elements and rogue officials. It is not far-fetched to consider that certain individuals or groups may view him as a threat to their illicit interests.
Instead of questioning his integrity based on an unproven allegation, South Africans should be asking: Why aren’t more police generals like Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi? Why isn’t his fearless leadership style being replicated in Gauteng, the Eastern Cape, Limpopo, and elsewhere?
Imagine a South Africa where every province had a police commissioner who led from the front? One who walked among the people, who was visible and accountable? And one who struck fear into criminals and inspired confidence in law-abiding citizens? That is the kind of leadership that can begin to turn the tide against crime.
Yes, let IPID conduct its investigation. Mkhwanazi himself, a man of discipline and integrity, would likely be the first to submit himself to due process. But while the investigation unfolds, let us not forget the positive impact he has already made.
Let us put our weight behind him
Let us not be quick to tear down one of the few public servants who have consistently delivered results. One who did so in a tough and often thankless environment. We should not allow a cloud of suspicion, especially one with no proven basis, to undo the trust and admiration he has earned from the people he serves.
To Mkhwanazi, I say this: Many of us see you. We see your efforts, your sacrifices, and your unwavering commitment to public safety in KZN. And we respect you for being a leader of action and not just words. We are proud of the example you set. And we hope that your work becomes a blueprint for policing in this country.
Do not be discouraged. Continue to serve with honour, knowing that countless South Africans stand behind you.
In a nation yearning for heroes, General Mkhwanazi is one. Let us not lose him to politics or to baseless accusations. And let us stand with him, defend the truth, and support leaders who put the people first.
