Durban’s streets were brought to a standstill on Tuesday morning as supporters of KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, took part in the spirited #HandsOffMkhwanazi march, organised by the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party.
What began at Curries Fountain Grounds quickly gathered momentum, with marchers chanting, singing struggle songs, and waving placards as they made their way through the city. The group’s intended destination was the Provincial Police Headquarters on Bram Fischer Road, but their progress was halted by a heavy police presence that blocked access to the building. It remains unclear what transpired after protestors were stopped from proceeding further.
As the crowd moved through the CBD, key intersections were closed off for more than 20 minutes, causing major traffic disruptions. Vehicles were at a complete standstill as protesters paused at intersections, occupying the streets. The march was followed by a lengthy motorcade of MK Party supporters, hooting and waving flags from vehicles, adding to the gridlock across central Durban.
Despite the inconvenience to motorists, the atmosphere remained peaceful but defiant. Supporters came not only from across Durban’s townships and suburbs—including Phoenix, Newlands, Chesterville, Umlazi, and KwaMashu—but also included members of other political parties, such as the ANC, some of whom wore green and yellow regalia in solidarity.
Organisers and community members voiced strong opposition to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to establish a judicial commission of inquiry into alleged police corruption involving senior officials, including Minister Senzo Mchunu, who has been placed on special leave with full benefits.
“Putting Mchunu on special leave with perks is unethical and unlawful,” said one of the organisers. “Meanwhile, someone like Mkhwanazi, who has shown courage and integrity, is being vilified. We are here to say enough is enough. We are backing Mkhwanazi 100%.”
They described Mkhwanazi as a true public servant, often seen on the ground during crises, from crime crackdowns to disaster response. Their fear is that political interference may soon remove him from office.
Fellow organiser Vincent Mdunge added that Mkhwanazi should be seen as a whistleblower rather than a target.
“The President is undermining the Constitution,” Mdunge said. “There cannot be two ministers in one portfolio. We are calling for a total overhaul of the justice system. We want the Political Killings Task Team revived, and we want Mkhwanazi protected—not punished.”
Placards bearing slogans such as “Defend Ethical Leadership”, “Stop Political Interference”, and “Protect Mkhwanazi” were held high by marchers, many of whom say they will continue demonstrating until their concerns are taken seriously.
While the Presidency has yet to respond to the demands or public pressure, the community has made its voice clear: Mkhwanazi must stay, and political shielding of alleged wrongdoing must end.
“He’s one of the last leaders people can trust,” said a supporter from Newlands. “We won’t sit back and let politics remove one of the few who actually delivers.”
As the political storm brews, Durban’s streets may be calm again—for now—but Tuesday’s march sent a loud and clear message: the people are watching, and they are ready to defend those who serve with honour.
