By localnew 
KZN Premier Endorses General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi for Second Term as Provincial Police Commissioner
KwaZulu‑Natal Premier Thami Ntuli has officially endorsed Lieutenant‑General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi for a second term as the province’s South African Police Service (SAPS) Provincial Commissioner. This follows a strategic meeting with National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola.
Ntuli’s announcement comes just months before Mkhwanazi’s current five-year term ends on 30 March 2026, signalling the provincial government’s confidence in his leadership as KwaZulu‑Natal continues to face high levels of serious crime.
In a statement, the Premier praised Mkhwanazi’s leadership, professionalism, and ethical standards, noting that stable SAPS command is “critical to the safety, stability and socio‑economic development of KwaZulu‑Natal.”
Mkhwanazi has been a prominent figure in national policing debates, raising concerns over alleged criminal syndicate influence and political interference in law enforcement. These issues are currently being investigated by a Parliamentary ad hoc committee and the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
Premier Ntuli emphasised that continuity of leadership is crucial due to KwaZulu‑Natal’s ongoing challenges with serious and violent crime, including political killings, organised crime, and extortion. He also highlighted Mkhwanazi’s intelligence-driven policing strategies as key to restoring public confidence and reinforcing the rule of law ahead of local government elections.
Under Section 207 of the Constitution, the national commissioner must appoint a provincial police commissioner with the concurrence of the provincial executive, and Ntuli’s endorsement paves the way for Mkhwanazi’s reappointment.
The provincial government’s backing represents a strong vote of confidence in Mkhwanazi at a time when public safety and institutional integrity remain national priorities.