Premier Ntuli backs KZN top cop Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi's contract renewal
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli with KwaZulu-Natal provincial police commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi during a walkabout on the Durban beachfront.
Image: KZN Provincial Government / Facebook
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has officially endorsed the renewal of Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s term as KwaZulu-Natal provincial police commissioner.
Ntuli recently held a meeting with South African Police Service (SAPS) National Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola on the issue.
Mkhwanazi’s current term is set to expire on 30 March 2026.
According to a statement from the KZN provincial government, Ntuli, during the discussions, expressed confidence in the commissioner’s leadership, professionalism, and ethical standards throughout his tenure.
The premier highlighted the importance of stable and effective leadership in tackling the province’s ongoing crime challenges.
“According to section 207(3) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, the National Commissioner must appoint a Provincial Commissioner for each province, with the concurrence of the provincial executive (the Premier). 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,” the statement said.
The provincial government said Mkhwanazi has been recognised for his hands-on approach to policing and for strengthening operational coordination within SAPS and with other law enforcement agencies.
Under his leadership, targeted, intelligence-driven interventions have been implemented to combat serious and violent crime, including political killings, organised crime, and extortion – offences that have historically undermined stability in the province.
Premier Ntuli noted that these efforts have helped restore public confidence in law enforcement, particularly 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 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 Premier emphasised that continuity in leadership is crucial, especially as sustained and consistent efforts are required to consolidate the gains made in the fight against crime.