‘No 2027 bid’: Mchunu's camp hits back at rumours

THE spokesperson for suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has denied suggestions that Mchunu's decision to take special leave from ANC duties is a strategic move to clear his name ahead of a potential bid for the ANC presidency in 2027.

- MASHUDU SADIKE

Sthembiso Mshengu, appointed recently as Mchunu’s personal spokesperson to handle media queries related to his legal woes, insisted that the former minister's current focus is solely on preparing for his appearance before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.

This comes as speculation mounts within the ANC’s ranks, with internal sources suggesting Mchunu's request for special leave serves a dual purpose, saying he has been freeing up time to prepare his defence against corruption allegations and simultaneously allowing him to quietly launch a campaign for the party's top job in 2027.

Mshengu strongly pushed back against this narrative, clarifying the nature of Mchunu’s absence from party structures.

“Mr Mchunu has not stepped aside but has just been placed on special leave by the president (Cyril Ramaphosa) and recently by the ANC,” Mshengu said.