EMPD deputy chief Mkhwanazi denies kidnapping colleague, defends promotions

EMPD deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi testifies before the Madlanga commission at Brigitte Mabandla Judicial College in Pretoria on 14 April 2026. Picture: Gallo Images / Frennie Shivambu He told the commission that the process was initially led by EMPD chief Isaac Mapiyeye, who chaired the selection panel. Mkhwanazi also confirmed that he had served on the panel himself.

“The process was not started by me; it was started by the chief of police, and when he was suspended, I had to continue.” The EMPD deputy chief argued that concerns about qualifications were inconsistently applied and that other candidates, including Ivan du Plessis, were similarly affected. “You can’t have a preferred candidate. You will bet, bet and bet, then the wrong horse wins. You’ll faint and collapse.”