South African activist and poet Ntsiki Mazwai has taken to social media to celebrate the impressive qualifications and professional track record of KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. Following Mkhwanazi’s explosive press conference on July 6, 2025—where he made bold accusations against top police leadership—Mazwai praised him for his courage and capabilities.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Mazwai detailed the extensive academic and professional background that sets Mkhwanazi apart from many in law enforcement. She wrote with admiration, “General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s credentials are impressive,” highlighting not only his formal education but also his specialized training and leadership roles.
General Mkhwanazi’s Impressive Educational Background
According to Mazwai, Mkhwanazi holds a BTech degree in Policing and a National Diploma in Police Administration, both of which laid the academic foundation for his remarkable policing career. Beyond that, he completed advanced training internationally, including a supervisor-level qualification in counter-terrorism investigations in the United States and bomb disposal training in South Africa. He also underwent Crisis Response Team Training in the U.S., further expanding his capacity in tactical and emergency operations.
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These academic and specialized credentials, Mazwai argues, explain why Mkhwanazi is uncompromising in his fight against crime and corruption in the police service. Her comment, “Ibethiwe ke lendoda” (this man is forged by fire), reflects her belief that he is well-equipped to challenge the status quo.
From Constable to Commissioner: A Stellar SAPS Career
Mkhwanazi joined the South African Police Service (SAPS) in 1993 as a student constable and has steadily climbed the ranks over the years. His key roles have included:
- Head of the SAPS Special Task Force
- Divisional Commissioner for Human Resource Development
- Acting National Commissioner of Police
- Provincial Commissioner for KwaZulu-Natal
His expertise spans multiple areas, including counter-terrorism, tactical response, hostage situations, special operations, bomb disposal, and air support coordination.
Public Reaction: Divided but Buzzing
Mazwai’s admiration resonated with many South Africans, who echoed her sentiments online. Some even suggested Mkhwanazi should be promoted to Police Minister or National Commissioner.
One user wrote, “He is a weapon formed against ANC corruption. Let him clean the country.” Another said, “This is the kind of guy we need.”
However, not everyone was impressed. A few skeptics argued that qualifications do not necessarily translate to effective leadership, while others questioned the political motivations behind his press conference.
Nota Baloyi Issues a Cautionary Note
Notably, music executive and controversial figure Nota Baloyi had a different take. While Mazwai celebrated Mkhwanazi, Baloyi warned him about potential backlash following his public accusations against Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and Deputy Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya. Baloyi suggested that such moves could have serious consequences, and no one, not even President Ramaphosa, would be able to protect him.
Conclusion
Regardless of public opinion, Ntsiki Mazwai’s praise has cast a spotlight on General Mkhwanazi’s extraordinary qualifications and service record. In a country struggling with crime and corruption, many South Africans are now looking to figures like Mkhwanazi for principled leadership and real change.
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