Durban – Following a meeting with General Fannie Masemola, the National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli is requesting the extension of Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s second-term contract as KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner.
“The Commissioner’s role has been pivotal in addressing KwaZulu-Natal’s high crime rates, including political killings and extortion,” said Premier Ntuli. “I have consistently maintained that there is no basis not to recommend a police officer of the calibre of Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi to continue with the work he is doing.”
The two men discussed Lieutenant-General Mkhwanazi’s future still within the service, as his current term of office is due to conclude on 30 March 2026. During the talk, Premier Ntuli expressed firm confidence in the leadership, professionalism, and ethical standards demonstrated by Mkhwanazi throughout his tenure as provincial commissioner.
Ntuli stated that he wants to see effective and stable SAPS leadership maintained since police work is still essential to KwaZulu-Natal’s safety, stability, and socioeconomic growth, especially in light of the province’s complicated and ongoing crime problems.
In terms of section 207(3) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, the National Commissioner is required, subject to the concurrence of the provincial executive (the Premier), to appoint a Provincial Commissioner for each province.
Mkhwanazi earns himself widespread recognition for his decisive and hands-on approach to policing, as well as for strengthening operational coordination within the SAPS and with other law enforcement agencies.
Under his leadership, targeted and intelligence-driven interventions have been implemented to combat serious and violent crime, including political killings, organised crime, extortion, and other priority offences that have historically undermined stability in the province, particularly as the country approaches the local government elections.
Ntuli noted that these interventions have contributed significantly to restoring public confidence in law enforcement and reinforcing the rule of law, especially in communities most affected by crime and instability.
He also underlined the vital necessity for leadership continuity, particularly at a time when persistent and constant efforts are necessary to solidify the gains won in the fight against crime. Ntuli reaffirmed that Lieutenant-General Mkhwanazi’s work ethic, discipline, and dedication to moral and responsible law enforcement are in keeping with the ideals and standards of the KwaZulu-Natal people and the provincial government.
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