Ramaphosa Confirms Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s Name Submitted for Hawks Top Job

KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has been put forward for consideration as the next national head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks, in a move that could see him take over leadership of one of South Africa’s key crime-fighting units.

The development follows an announcement by Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia, who confirmed that he had submitted a memorandum to Cabinet seeking approval for Mkhwanazi’s appointment.

The proposed appointment comes amid reports surrounding Mkhwanazi’s possible move to the national position and claims that he was unwilling to take up the responsibility. However, the latest developments indicate that his name has formally been submitted for consideration.

According to the Police Ministry, the appointment process is being conducted in accordance with Section 17CA of the South African Police Service Act of 1995, which requires the national head of the Hawks to be appointed by the Minister of Police with Cabinet’s concurrence.

The ministry explained that the memorandum would be presented during a Cabinet sitting, after which a decision would be communicated regarding the appointment.

Mkhwanazi’s possible elevation comes at a time when the Hawks play an important role in investigating serious criminal activities, including organised crime, corruption and other priority offences across the country.

The position became vacant following the retirement of former Hawks head Lieutenant-General Godfrey Lebeya in May 2025. Lieutenant-General Siphesihle Nkosi has since been serving in an acting capacity.

Mkhwanazi has remained a prominent figure in South Africa’s law enforcement sector, particularly following his July 2025 media briefing, during which he made serious allegations about criminal syndicates and alleged political interference within the country’s criminal justice system.

His allegations triggered investigations, including the establishment of the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

If Cabinet approves the proposed appointment, Mkhwanazi will move from leading the KwaZulu-Natal police service to overseeing the Hawks at the national level.

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