‘Hands Off Mkhwanazi’ march unites civil society in show of defiance against corruption
The march, spearheaded by Concerned Citizens of South Africa, drew together civil society organisations, NGOs, political parties, community safety forums, and everyday citizens under the banner of ‘Hands Off Mkhwanazi’.
Hundreds of South Africans from across the political, civil, and security spectrum flooded the streets of Durban’s CBD, on Tuesday, July 15, in support of embattled KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner, Lt Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
The mass action followed his explosive revelations about alleged political interference in police investigations, claims that have shaken the nation’s criminal justice system.
The march, spearheaded by Concerned Citizens of South Africa, drew together civil society organisations, NGOs, political parties, community safety forums, and everyday citizens under the banner of ‘Hands Off Mkhwanazi’.
ALSO READ: KZN police commissioner unveils alarming web of corruption
Protesters assembled at Curries Fountain before marching to the KZN SAPS Provincial Head Office to demand accountability, transparency, and protection for whistleblowers like Lt Gen Mkhwanazi.
“Let us unite our voices and show that we will not tolerate corruption, interference, or abuse of power. This march is about standing for truth and integrity,” said Ntokozo Mkhize, national spokesperson for the organising body.
Lt Gen Mkhwanazi’s public briefing on July 6 accused senior political figures, including police minister, Senzo Mchunu, of attempting to interfere in SAPS investigations, including those into political killings.
The allegations sparked widespread outrage and prompted President Cyril Ramaphosa to announce a commission of inquiry, led by Acting Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga.
“There is absolutely no way that Lt Gen Mkhwanazi would have spoken without having facts to validate what he’s saying. He stood up for the people. Now we must stand for him,” said Selwyn Anderson, a marcher from Sydenham.
Members of the security cluster, including YT Tactical, also joined the march.
“We believe it’s not a race issue, it’s a corruption issue. As people who see crime first-hand, we say it’s time to fight back,” said Wesley Reinecke from the Bluff.
ALSO READ: KZN police refutes malicious allegations and accusations against provincial commissioner
In his national address, President Ramaphosa confirmed Minister Mchunu had been placed on immediate leave of absence, and Professor Firoz Cachalia had been appointed acting police minister.
The president assured the nation that the commission would have the power to investigate and recommend prosecutions and disciplinary actions where warranted.
The Community Policing Forum (CPF) in KwaZulu-Natal has thrown its weight behind Lt Gen Mkhwanazi and called for political oversight to never compromise police independence. “The integrity of law enforcement must remain uncompromised to maintain public trust and effectively combat crime,” said Siyanda Biyela, CPF spokesperson.
