The African Transformation Movement (ATM) has formally requested that the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development summon Public Protector Kholeka Gcaleka to explain the prolonged delay in the investigation into Police Minister Senzo Mchunu. The party lodged its complaint against the Minister on 7 July 2025, and maintains that after nearly a year, the lack of a final outcome remains deeply concerning.
Parliamentary Oversight And Institutional Accountability
ATM parliamentary leader Vuyo Zungula has pushed for direct intervention, citing the constitutional duty of the Public Protector to investigate breaches of the Executive Ethics Code with urgency. During his latest appeal for action, Zungula argued that the institution must provide a clear briefing on the status of the probe, the reasons for the stagnation, and a definitive timeline for completion.
Accordingly, the ATM respectfully, requests that the portfolio committee, must summon the public protector, in terms of Section 56 of the Constitution, to appear before the committee and provide a comprehensive briefing on the status of the investigation into the complaint against Mchunu, the reasons for the prolonged delay, and the anticipated timeframe for its finalisation.
Investigation Challenges And Allegations
The investigation stems from serious allegations, including claims of political interference in police operations, abuse of power, and improper associations with individuals linked to organised crime. These grievances were initially highlighted in July 2025 by KZN Police Commissioner Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who raised concerns regarding the disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team.
While the Office of the Public Protector confirmed that the investigation is actively progressing, officials maintain that delays are necessitated by the unavailability of key witnesses tied to parallel state proceedings. Chief Operations Officer Nelisiwe Nkabinde noted that despite these constraints, the inquiry team continues to gather evidence and has made appreciable headway in several critical areas of the investigation. The Portfolio Committee is now expected to weigh the necessity of an formal summons against the constraints cited by the oversight body.