KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi is set to remain in his position, with National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola confirming that his contract will be renewed for another term.
Mkhwanazi’s contract was due to expire at the end of March.
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Masemola said the process to extend the contract is currently under way, with final details still being concluded.
“We are in the process of finalising those details. So yes, he will still be Provincial Commissioner of KZN,” said Masemola.
He added that the decision had the backing of the provincial government.
“We have got a good working relationship, and the Premier agreed to the renewal of the contract. So, we are just working on modalities,” he said.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli had earlier this year formally endorsed the renewal of Mkhwanazi’s contract.
The South African Policing Union (Sapu) has welcomed the move, saying Mkhwanazi’s leadership and experience make him well-suited to continue in the role.
Speaking to eNCA, Sapu spokesperson Lesiba Thobakgale said Mkhwanazi has proven himself over time.
“We know him; he is a seasoned police officer. He is also a member of a specialised task force, well-trained and has been doing great work in KZN,” said Thobakgale.
He added that the union has long supported the development of experienced officers within the police service and believes Mkhwanazi still has more to offer.
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“When you look at Mkhwanazi, he is still young, and his age allows him. Maybe he will become the national commissioner in future,” he said.
