Suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu is preparing to resume his political duties in the ANC after stepping back from party structures while facing scrutiny over corruption allegations and police interference claims. His spokesperson, Sithembiso Mshengu, said Mchunu is expected to write to ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula to formally ask to return.

Mchunu Set to Write to ANC

Mshengu said the move follows Mchunu’s appearances before Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee and the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. He said Mchunu believes he can now return to ANC work because the intense preparation linked to those processes is over.

Mchunu had earlier chosen to pause his participation in ANC structures through a letter to Mbalula. That included his roles in the party’s National Executive Committee and National Working Committee, even though the ANC National Executive Committee had rejected his request to step aside from party duties.

Why He Stepped Back

Mchunu has been under pressure after allegations linked him to the disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team and to alleged interference in police operations. KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi accused Mchunu of ordering the unit’s disbandment on 31 December 2024 without consulting national police leadership. Mkhwanazi also alleged links between Mchunu and controversial businessman Vusumusi “Cat” Matlala.

Mshengu said Mchunu’s decision to pause his ANC work was voluntary and aimed at allowing him to focus on responding to the allegations clearly. He also said Mchunu has not been charged.

Pressure on ANC Grows

It is reported that Mchunu has already appeared twice before the ANC Integrity Commission. It also states that he remains on special leave from his position as Police Minister.

Political analyst Ntsikelelo Breakfast said a return to ANC duties could be difficult because Mchunu’s public image has taken a hit. Another analyst, Sandile Swana, said the move suggests Mchunu does not want to lose influence inside ANC structures while the matter continues.

The development puts fresh focus on the ANC’s step-aside rule and how the party handles leaders facing serious allegations.