“You are not a comrade” — Mkhwanazi delivers a blunt message to his police members on police conduct

The KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, has a direct message for the South African Police Service: “You are not a comrade.” Although the statement is brief, it captures the essence of what police officers should be.

According to Mkhwanazi, wearing a police uniform entails responsibilities that take precedence over friendships, political allegiances, and ties to previous struggles. Officers are supposed to uphold the law, honour the order of command, and defend all communities without bias, fear, or favouritism. Determining who is investigated, arrested, or shielded has nothing to do with allegiance to a cause or a comrade.

The spotlight is nothing new to him. Mkhwanazi has emerged as one of the nation’s most vocal senior police officers, taking strong stances on alleged law enforcement corruption and organised crime. His most recent comments come at a time when calls for genuine accountability are intensifying and public confidence in the SAPS is being closely examined.

The main point of his speech is evident, but the entire context is important. Instead of acting like members of social or political groups, police officers should operate like disciplined professionals.

The true question, then, is whether a police force can ever completely distance itself from politics in a nation where a large number of officers have a history of conflict. Tell us whether you believe the SAPS is doing enough to maintain its neutrality by leaving a comment below.

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