S.A News: Mkhwanazi Reveals He Nearly Retired Before Securing Second Term as KZN Police Commissioner

Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Police Commissioner, has disclosed that he originally intended to retire after completing his first term which is ending tommorow, 31 March 2026, but reconsidered following discussions with national leadership.

The revelation came as the South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed Mkhwanazi’s reappointment to a second five-year fixed-term contract. National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola announced the decision, which followed consultation with KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli.

Mkhwanazi reportedly told officers and senior management that he had planned to step down when his initial contract ended but changed his mind after conversations with Masemola, who emphasized the need for continued stability and decisive leadership in the province.

He has since committed to focusing on reducing crime, achieving a clean audit for the provincial SAPS, and improving service delivery.

Mkhwanazi’s first term was marked by high visibility and controversy. He gained national attention in July 2025 for explosive allegations of political interference, corruption, and criminal infiltration within the SAPS and the broader criminal justice system.

His outspoken stance earned him both public support and significant pushback, including calls for his removal and speculation about whether his contract would be renewed.

In earlier statements, Mkhwanazi had hinted at stepping back to “rest” once his term concluded, amid reported tensions with former Police Minister Bheki Cele and concerns over political killings and specialized units in KZN. Supporters had marched under the banner “Hands Off Mkhwanazi,” urging his retention due to his reputation for resisting undue influence.

His reappointment is widely seen as a vote of confidence from both national and provincial authorities, particularly as KZN continues to grapple with violent crime and political instability.

Mkhwanazi is expected to provide further details on his vision for the second term in the coming weeks. SAPS has indicated that additional information on the reappointment will be released in due course.

The move comes at a critical time for law enforcement in the country, where effective leadership remains central to public safety and trust in the police.