Ramaphosa to Address the Nation on Sunday

President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver a televised address to the nation on Sunday, 13 July 2025, in response to explosive corruption allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. The claims accuse Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and Deputy Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya of political interference and alleged collusion with organized crime syndicates.

Background: Mkhwanazi’s Allegations

On 6 July, Lt‑Gen. Mkhwanazi revealed startling accusations during a media briefing, claiming that Minister Mchunu had ordered the disbandment of the elite Political Killings Task Team in KZN. He also alleged that 125 politically sensitive case dockets were handed over to Deputy Commissioner Sibiya’s office, where they were essentially “neutralised.” He cited the existence of phone records suggesting Mchunu’s ties to crime syndicates, including figures like Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala and broker Brown Mogotsi.

Ramaphosa’s Deliberative Approach

Sources within the presidency indicate that Ramaphosa has returned from the BRICS summit in Brazil and is currently engaging in consultations with key stakeholders, ranging from SAPS leadership to ANC officials and parliamentary committees before deciding on a course of action. While some insiders believe the president might place Minister Mchunu on special leave, no immediate decision has been made yet as Ramaphosa seeks to ensure all procedural and political considerations are addressed.

What to Expect on Sunday?

1. Suspensions or Special Leave: Ramaphosa may announce interim removal or leave for key figures like Minister Mchunu or Deputy Commissioner Sibiya.
2. Inquiry Launch: A judicial or SIU-style commission may be announced, complete with terms of reference, leadership, and clear timelines.
3. Oversight & Reform: Ramaphosa is likely to introduce structural reforms foreseeing forensic audits, whistle-blower protections, and enhanced oversight mechanisms to rebuild trust in SAPS.
4. Accountability Framework: The address may include a roadmap outlining how political and institutional accountability will be enforced, backed by independent monitoring.

Why This Address Matters?

• Governance & Reputation of SAPS: With serious allegations around political interference and organized crime infiltration, decisive leadership is essential to restore public confidence.
• Political Stakes: Across the spectrum—from the ANC’s internal factions to opposition parties—there is growing pressure for swift, transparent action.
• Stability and Civil Order: KwaZulu-Natal remains tense, with authorities cautioning that political agitation could spiral given the sensitive nature of the accusations.

Sunday’s address by President Ramaphosa is expected to be a pivotal moment to set a national tone on corruption, accountability, and policing reform. The substance and urgency of his announcements may define his leadership and could determine whether South Africa’s institutions begin a genuine path to reform.