Judiciary requests evidence in support of Mkhwanazi allegations
The Office of the Chief Justice has formally requested National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola and KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi for evidence in support of allegations of political interference in law enforcement.
During a media briefing on Sunday, Mkwanazi made explosive allegations of collusion between the judiciary and criminals.
He also accused senior police officials and political figures of interfering in criminal investigations and abusing state power.
Mkhwanazi claims some leaders protected politically connected individuals from prosecution and used state resources to target whistleblowers, naming Police Minister Senzo Mchunu as the one who allegedly obstructed members of the task team on political killings from arresting possible suspects in Gauteng.
President Cyril Ramaphosa will address the nation on the explosive allegations on Sunday night.
The President's spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya, confirmed the president will address the nation, saying he has been "seized with this matter" since landing back from Brazil this week.
Spokesperson to the Chief Justice of South Africa, Bongiwe Gambu, said unsubstantiated claims are extremely damaging to the public's confidence in the Judiciary.
"Judicial officers are bound by the judicial oath or solemn affirmation of office to uphold and protect the Constitution, and the human rights entrenched in it, and to administer justice to all persons alike without fear, favour or prejudice, in accordance with the Constitution and the law," said Gambu.
"As such, any suggestion of impropriety within the judiciary is treated with the utmost gravity.
"In this regard, the Acting Secretary-General of the Office of the Chief Justice has formally requested the National Commissioner of the SAPS and the Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen Mkhwanazi, to furnish evidence in support of these allegations and to lodge formal complaints, where warranted, with the Judicial Service Commission and/or the Magistrates Commission."
Chief Justice Mandisa Maya reaffirmed the judiciary's commitment to accountability and the rule of law.
"If any person, including Lt Gen Mkhwanazi, has credible evidence of unlawful or unethical conduct committed by a member of the judiciary, they are urged to report such matters to the legally mandated structures of the State," said Maya.
Find us on social media
Follow the ECR Newswatch WhatsApp channel here
MORE ON ECR
