EFF challenges Ramaphosa's decision on police minister's 'special leave'

THE EFF contends that President Cyril Ramaphosa does not have the constitutional power to put a cabinet minister on a leave of absence, instead suggesting he should relieve Mchunu of his duties.

- MASHUDU SADIKE

This is according to a legal letter served on Ramaphosa challenging his decision to place embattled Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on special leave.

The decision comes after allegations of corruption were made by KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

The EFF isn't the only party questioning President Ramaphosa's decision. The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has also indicated that it's drafting papers for a Constitutional Court challenge, and the DA said police were now investigating the criminal charges it lodged against Mchunu

The DA also confirmed that a senior Lieutenant Colonel has been assigned as the investigating officer in the criminal matter against Mchunu.

Mkhwanazi accused Mchunu of interfering with sensitive police investigations and colluding with business-people to disband the Political Killings Task Team in KwaZulu-Natal.