Cele breaks silence on his successor decision that divided SAPS

The two most recent heads of the Police Ministry, Senzo Mchunu and Bheki Cele, have both appeared before Parliament’s Ad-Hoc Committee investigating alleged criminal infiltration and political interference within South Africa’s criminal justice system.

At the heart of the inquiry was Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, currently on special leave, who issued a directive to disband the KwaZulu-Natal Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) — a decision that has drawn sharp criticism from multiple quarters. Mchunu faced an intense grilling from MPs, who questioned the legality and timing of his directive amid ongoing investigations into political assassinations in the province.

The situation intensified when former Police Minister Bheki Cele took the stand, casting doubt on Mchunu’s justification for the move. Cele told lawmakers that Mchunu’s decision “was not grounded on sound legal arguments,” suggesting it undermined ongoing efforts to combat politically motivated crimes.

Security analysts say Cele’s testimony has further weakened Mchunu’s position, as the committee continues to unravel deep divisions within the top ranks of the police ministry. “Cele’s remarks not only question Mchunu’s judgment but also hint at broader instability within the state’s security apparatus,” said security strategist Andy Mashaile.

Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged patience, saying the Madlanga Commission and the parliamentary inquiry must be allowed to conclude before any action is taken.

The hearings continue to expose tensions between the two ministers and raise concerns about accountability, loyalty, and political influence over policing structures.

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