Zuma, MK Party to challenge Ramaphosa's decision to place Mchunu on special leave
The MK Party approached the apex court on an urgent basis, wanting Mchunu’s suspension, the appointment of an acting minister, and the institution of a judicial commission of inquiry set aside.
FILE: President Cyril Ramaphosa speaking on the first day of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on 21 January 2025. Picture: Supplied/@PresidencyZA on X
JOHANNESBURG - A presidential battle will play out in the Constitutional Court on Wednesday morning as the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party and its leader, former President Jacob Zuma, are set to challenge President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent decision to place Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu on special leave.
The MK Party approached the apex court on an urgent basis, wanting Mchunu’s suspension, the appointment of an acting minister, and the institution of a judicial commission of inquiry set aside.
ALSO READ: Ramaphosa defends decision to appoint Firoz Cachalia as acting police minister
Earlier in July, Ramaphosa made the decision based on an explosive media briefing by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
The MK Party will argue that while the Constitution is clear on the president’s powers to appoint and fire ministers, there is no provision for placing a member of Cabinet on special leave.
They said the only rational reason that Ramaphosa could have decided this for Mchunu is so that he keeps his salary and perks as a minister.
But the president argues that while there is no explicit mention of special leave in the supreme law, he has implied ancillary powers.
He said he cannot simply fire Mchunu based on untested allegations.
Because Zuma and the MK Party are separate applicants in the matter, different lawyers will argue on their behalf before the bench.