SA scholar Jonny Steinberg calls for cautious approach to Mkhwanazi's allegations
Steinberg, who is an acclaimed writer on South Africa's democratic history and politics, has questioned the timing of the press conference and Mkhwanazi's choice to wear military garb while surrounded by officials carrying automatic weapons.
KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi in his office at the provincial operations building in Durban. Picture: Katlego Jiyane/EWN
CAPE TOWN - South African writer and scholar Jonny Steinberg believes KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi tried to send President Cyril Ramaphosa a threatening message when he made allegations against Police Minister Senzo Mchunu.
Mkhwanazi held a media briefing recently to allege that parts of the South African Police Service (SAPS) have been captured by criminal syndicates.
Steinberg, who is an acclaimed writer on South Africa's democratic history and politics, has questioned the timing of the press conference and Mkhwanazi's choice to wear military garb while surrounded by officials carrying automatic weapons.
He also questioned why the general chose not to use another platform to bring his allegations against Mchunu.
"You know this is a police officer, not a soldier, and yet he chose to dress in fatigues and to be surrounded by pretty ominous-looking men carrying automatic weapons and to use such language as saying he's prepared to die, he's ready for combat."
Steinberg believes Ramaphosa was being sent a message.
"For seven years, Ramaphosa has sat on his hands and done nothing about the crises within the police. He finally moved and tried to do something and this is a response. It's saying beware, I am armed."
Steinberg said Mkhwanazi's motives should be questioned and called for a cautious approach to the theatrics surrounding the allegations the general has made.
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