President Cyril Ramaphosa
President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to address the nation on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at 19h00 regarding serious national security implications arising from recent allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
The Presidency announced on that the address will detail developments following Mkhwanazi’s public statement on July 6, which implicated senior political figures and South African Police Service leadership in criminal activities.
General Mkhwanazi’s explosive claims, made during a media briefing while President Ramaphosa was attending a BRICS summit in Brazil, have sent shockwaves across the country.
The Commissioner alleged that organized crime syndicates have infiltrated South Africa’s criminal justice system, and further accused Police Minister Senzo Mchunu of being in constant communication with individuals involved in criminal activities. Mkhwanazi also stated that firearms linked to the killings of high-profile South Africans, including artists in Gauteng, have been in police possession without any action being taken.
He specifically named Mchunu, Deputy National Commissioner for Crime Detection Lieutenant General Sibiya, and a contractor, Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala, along with Mchunu’s alleged associate, Brown Mogotsi, claiming their actions undermined investigations and amounted to defeating the ends of justice.
The President, upon his return from Brazil, acknowledged the gravity of the allegations, stating that he would attend to the matter urgently due to its implications for national security. He has since been engaged in various consultations to prepare for this crucial national address.
The allegations have raised significant concerns about the integrity of the country’s law enforcement agencies and the broader criminal justice system. Political parties and civil society have called for swift and decisive action, with some advocating for an independent commission of inquiry.
The public eagerly awaits President Ramaphosa’s address, which is expected to outline the government’s plan to address these serious claims and restore public confidence in state institutions. The message will be broadcast and streamed on various platforms.
