UNISA Professor Breaks Silence on Mkhwanazi’s Proposed Hawks Appointment

UNISA Professor Mpho Matlala Backs Mkhwanazi for Hawks Leadership Position

University of South Africa (UNISA) professor Mpho Matlala has thrown his support behind KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi to become the next head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks.

Matlala expressed confidence in Mkhwanazi’s suitability for the position following Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia’s move to seek Cabinet approval for his proposed appointment. The development has brought renewed attention to the future leadership of the specialised crime-fighting unit.

“There isn’t a better person for the job,” Matlala said, according to the statement provided, making his position clear on who he believes should lead the directorate.

Mkhwanazi’s possible appointment comes at a time when tackling corruption, organised crime and other serious offences remains a major priority for South Africa’s criminal justice system. The Hawks are responsible for investigating high-priority crimes, including complex commercial offences and cases involving alleged corruption.

The appointment of a suitable leader is therefore considered important to strengthening the unit’s ability to investigate serious criminal activity and support efforts to hold alleged offenders accountable.

Cachalia’s decision to approach Cabinet represents a significant step in the appointment process. However, Mkhwanazi has not yet been confirmed as the new Hawks head, as the necessary approval remains outstanding.

Matlala’s endorsement adds to the public discussion surrounding Mkhwanazi’s potential move from his current position as KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner to lead the national investigative directorate.

Should the appointment receive the required approval, Mkhwanazi would take on the responsibility of overseeing a specialised unit tasked with investigating some of the country’s most serious criminal cases.

His leadership could attract considerable attention, particularly regarding the fight against organised crime and corruption.

For now, the focus remains on Cabinet’s response to Cachalia’s proposal. Until the process is finalised, Mkhwanazi’s candidacy remains subject to the required approval, while Matlala has made his preference clear by describing him as the best person for the position.

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