Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia has started the process to appoint Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner, as national head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), known as the Hawks.
The Police Ministry said on Thursday 29 October that Cachalia has submitted a Cabinet memorandum seeking Cabinet's concurrence.
What the Police Ministry says
The ministry said the memorandum will be presented "at the earliest opportunity during a Cabinet sitting".
It said: "The DPCI plays a critical role in South Africa's fight against organised crime, corruption, and other serious priority offences. This is a priority for the Police Reset Agenda."
The ministry added: "The appointment of a National Head is important in ensuring strong leadership, strategic direction and operational effectiveness in addressing these crimes."
The legal process
Under Section 17CA(1) to (3) of the South African Police Service Act 68 of 1995, the Minister of Police makes the appointment with the concurrence of Cabinet. The Act also provides for the appointment to be reported to Parliament.
Lieutenant General Siphesihle Nkosi currently serves as acting national head of the Hawks.
