By: Buhle Mbhele
Chief Justice Mandisa Maya has set deadlines in the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party’s urgent legal challenge against President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to place Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on special leave.
The MK Party argues that Ramaphosa’s decision is irrational and inconsistent with both the Constitution and the presidential oath of office. The party has approached the Constitutional Court, seeking to have the decision reviewed and overturned.
In directions issued by the Chief Justice, parties wishing to intervene in support of the MK Party’s application must file their court papers by the end of today. Those intending to oppose the main application have until Tuesday to submit their answering affidavits.
The legal action follows allegations by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who accused Minister Mchunu of being linked to criminal gangs and interfering in police investigations. Ramaphosa placed Mchunu on special leave amid the controversy, but the move has sparked legal and political backlash.
The matter is likely to test the limits of executive power and the role of the courts in overseeing presidential decisions involving national security and public accountability.
