Mkhwanazi’s Possible Move to the Hawks Takes a New Turn as Cabinet Approval Is Sought

Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi could soon take on one of South Africa’s most important crime-fighting positions after Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia initiated the process to appoint him as the national head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks.

The development has attracted attention as the country continues to battle organised crime, corruption and allegations of criminal networks operating within law enforcement structures.

According to an official statement released by the Police Ministry on Thursday, 29 October 2026, Cachalia has submitted a memorandum to Cabinet seeking approval for Mkhwanazi’s appointment. The proposal is expected to be considered at the earliest opportunity during an upcoming Cabinet meeting.

However, the appointment has not yet been finalised, as it remains subject to Cabinet’s concurrence.

Mkhwanazi currently serves as the KwaZulu-Natal provincial police commissioner, a position he has held since 2018. He previously served as acting national police commissioner and has built a reputation as a senior police officer with extensive operational experience.

Under Section 17CA of the South African Police Service Act 68 of 1995, the national head of the Hawks is appointed by the Minister of Police with Cabinet’s concurrence. The appointment must subsequently be reported to Parliament.

The national leadership position became vacant following the retirement of Lieutenant-General Godfrey Lebeya in May 2025. Lieutenant-General Siphesihle Nkosi has been serving as acting national head.

If Cabinet approves the recommendation, Mkhwanazi would assume responsibility for leading the specialised unit tasked with investigating serious priority crimes, including organised criminal activities, corruption and complex financial offences.

Mkhwanazi gained national prominence in July 2025 when he made public allegations of criminal syndicate infiltration and political interference within South Africa’s criminal justice system.

His revelations triggered significant public debate and contributed to the establishment of the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, which is investigating allegations of criminality, corruption and interference within law enforcement institutions.

The developments have intensified calls for accountability and stronger leadership within the police service.

The proposed appointment comes at a time when South Africans are demanding more effective action against organised crime and corruption.

The Police Ministry has emphasised that appointing a permanent national head is important for providing strategic direction, strengthening operational effectiveness and advancing the government’s Police Reset Agenda.

Cabinet’s decision will therefore be closely watched, particularly given the importance of the Hawks in investigating serious offences that threaten public safety and confidence in state institutions.

For now, Mkhwanazi’s potential move remains subject to the required approval process. It is also not yet clear who would replace him as KwaZulu-Natal provincial police commissioner should his appointment proceed.

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