Tuesday, 15 July 2025, President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe as the Acting Minister of Police, following the dramatic suspension of Senzo Mchunu over allegations of corruption and links to criminal networks.
The Presidency confirmed the appointment on Monday evening, stating that Mantashe will assume the role with immediate effect while continuing to oversee the Ministry of Mineral and Petroleum Resources. His appointment is temporary, as law professor Firoz Cachalia is expected to take over the portfolio in early August.
This leadership change comes after Mchunu was placed on leave on 13 July amid growing pressure following revelations that high-ranking police officials may have colluded with criminal syndicates. In response, President Ramaphosa has announced the establishment of a judicial commission of inquiry to investigate the allegations.
Mantashe’s appointment is seen as a stabilising move during a time of mounting public concern over law enforcement credibility and political accountability.
The Presidency has not yet confirmed the exact date when Prof. Cachalia will assume the police portfolio.
