MCHUNU'S ANC BID TAKES HIT

POLICE Minister Senzo Mchunu's hopes of being the next ANC president may have collapsed before it could even take off.

This follows explosive allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutentant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who accused Mchunu of serious misconduct, including collusion with criminal elements involved in drug trafficking and political killings.

The anticipated race for the ANC’s 56th national elective conference was expected to be fierce, with Mchunu among the prominent figures allegedly vying for the top position. 

His campaign had begun to gain traction, with posters circulating on social media. 

But dinge have gone south after accusations of interfering in police operations and protecting individuals linked to organised crime. 

Mkhwanazi's revelations have raised significant concerns about the integrity of the South African police force and the political landscape.

Mkhwanazi also claimed that Mchunu had received financial support from a controversial businessman allegedly involved in serious crimes.

“I can confirm before South Africans today that the investigation which these members were involved with in Gauteng has unmasked the syndicate, and this syndicate involves, amongst others, politicians who are currently serving in Parliament”.

Political analyst and Senior lecturer Dr Metji Makgoba from the University of Limpopo said these allegations could severely undermine Mchunu's presidential bid. 

“Once someone opens a  window concerning the type of details that have come out, people are going to bring you under scrutiny,” Makgoba said. 

“This means Mchunu won’t have the time to strategise or mobilise support. His credibility is now questioned, and the media scrutiny will make it difficult for him to maintain his campaign.”

President Cyril Ramaphosa has described the allegations as “grave national security concerns” that requires immediate attention.

In response to the allegations, Mchunu has maintained his innocence, labelling Mkhwanazi's claims as “baseless and without evidence.” 

Despite his denial, the detailed nature of Mkhwanazi's accusations, which included a chronology of events and evidence of alleged financial transactions, has left many questioning Mchunu's integrity and future in politics.