Political analyst Sandile Swana has sharply criticized President Cyril Ramaphosa’s handling of recent national security controversies, suggesting that the president appears “cornered and captured” by powerful political forces.
The remarks followed Ramaphosa’s late-night announcement that Police Minister Senzo Mchunu would be placed on “special leave” amid allegations involving the KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner. Instead of taking direct action, Ramaphosa appointed a judge and two senior advocates to investigate the claims—a move that has drawn widespread criticism for delaying accountability.
Outsourcing Executive Responsibility?
Swana echoed opposition concerns, particularly from the Democratic Alliance (DA), which accused Ramaphosa of “outsourcing his executive function” to yet another commission. “We already have fully funded state institutions—SARS, NPA, the SIU—that could handle this immediately,” Swana argued. He questioned why Ramaphosa did not instruct these bodies to act rather than appointing a lengthy inquiry.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) also challenged the legality of Ramaphosa appointing an acting minister from outside Parliament, suggesting it violated constitutional provisions.
Ethnic Tensions and Political Paralysis
Swana hinted at underlying ethnic dimensions, noting that many key figures in the dispute are Zulu-speaking, with ties to KwaZulu-Natal’s volatile political landscape. He warned against Ramaphosa allowing ethnic considerations to overshadow decisive leadership.
“The president must act on facts, not political pressure,” Swana said, comparing Ramaphosa’s hesitation to past instances where leaders deferred to powerful factions.
A Weakened Presidency?
The analyst painted a picture of a president struggling to assert authority within his own government. Ramaphosa recently fired DA deputy minister Andrew Whitfield over a travel violation but has yet to act against Higher Education Minister Nobuhle Nkabane, who faces misconduct allegations.
Swana suggested Ramaphosa’s decisions are influenced by powerful ANC figures, including Secretary-General Gwede Mantashe, who wields significant control over party dynamics. “Ramaphosa needs approvals from these forces to act,” Swana claimed, implying the president’s autonomy is limited.
Coalition Strains and Future Challenges
The DA’s John Steenhuisen revealed he was not consulted on Mchunu’s suspension, signaling tensions within the government of national unity. Swana predicted further friction as Ramaphosa balances coalition demands with ANC internal politics.
As the ANC prepares for its delayed National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, questions linger over Ramaphosa’s ability to navigate mounting crises. With critics accusing him of indecision and political capture, the president faces growing scrutiny over his leadership ahead of the 2026 elections.
