The African National Congress (ANC) says suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu will continue with his organisational duties in the party, despite facing a corruption probe and having expressed his willingness to step aside.
Mchunu, who serves on the ANC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) and National Working Committee (NWC), has already appeared before Parliament’s ad hoc committee but has not yet appeared before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, which President Cyril Ramaphosa established.
In a statement, ANC national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu confirmed that Mchunu had “indicated his willingness to step aside from organisational work” following the announcement of the Commission.
Bhengu said the ANC acknowledges Mchunu’s continued cooperation with the Madlanga Commission and the ANC Integrity Commission, in line with the movement’s values of accountability, discipline, and respect for due process.”
“The National Executive Committee (NEC) discussed the circumstances surrounding Comrade Mchunu’s matter and, consistent with the provisions of the ANC Constitution and established policy on such matters, agreed that he would continue to perform organisational tasks while on special leave from his Cabinet responsibilities,” Bhengu said.
She added that the ANC would “continue to monitor developments,” and that the NEC would “revisit its discussion should new developments arise that warrant further consideration.”
“As a movement rooted in renewal and ethical leadership, the ANC reiterates that once a member is criminally charged, they voluntarily step aside from their responsibilities until the conclusion of such matters,” Bhengu said.
“This policy position, unique to the ANC, reflects the organisation’s enduring commitment to integrity, transparency, and accountability.”
Last week, IOL reported that Mchunu has appointed former ANC Youth League activist and political communicator Sithembiso Mshengu as his personal spokesperson. Mshengu will handle all media queries related to Mchunu’s upcoming appearance before the Madlanga Commission and his testimony before Parliament’s ad hoc committee.
The IOL report also noted that Mchunu’s appointment of Mshengu comes amid growing pressure over allegations that he was “in cahoots with notorious gang members” accused of exploiting political connections to influence policing and judicial processes.
jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za
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