The Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, has formally concurred with the renewal of the contract of the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, for a second term, following a meeting with the South African Police Service National Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola.

The meeting focused on discussions regarding the future of Lieutenant-General Mkhwanazi, whose current term of office is due to conclude on 30 March 2026. During the engagement, Premier Ntuli expressed firm confidence in the leadership, professionalism, and ethical standards demonstrated by Lieutenant-General Mkhwanazi throughout his tenure as Provincial Commissioner. The Premier emphasised that effective and stable leadership within the SAPS remains critical to the safety, stability, and socio-economic development of KwaZulu-Natal, particularly in light of the province’s complex and persistent crime challenges.

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.

Lieutenant-General Mkhwanazi has earned 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.

The Premier 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.

“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.”

Premier Ntuli further underscored the importance of continuity in leadership, particularly at a time when sustained and consistent efforts are required to consolidate the gains made in the fight against crime. He reiterated that Lieutenant-General Mkhwanazi’s discipline, work ethic, and commitment to ethical and accountable policing align with the values and expectations of the Provincial Government and the people of KwaZulu-Natal.

The Premier reaffirmed the Provincial Government’s full support for the renewal of Lieutenant-General Mkhwanazi’s contract and its continued commitment to working closely with the SAPS and national law enforcement structures to ensure safer communities, effective crime prevention, and the protection of all residents of KwaZulu-Natal.

ENDS

For further information, please contact:

Mr. Bongani Gina
Head of Provincial Government Communications
Contact: 071 217 3037

Mr. Lindelani Mbatha
KZN Premier’s Media Liaison Officer and Spokesperson
Contact: 061 499 077

ISSUED BY KWAZULU-NATAL PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT