Mkhwanazi secures five-year extension as KZN police commissioner

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Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has been reappointed as the provincial commissioner of KwaZulu-Natal by the South African Police Service (SAPS) for a duration of five years.

Mkhwanazi’s term, initially set to conclude on March 31, has been extended following weeks of anticipation after national commissioner Fannie Masemola confirmed the renewal process was underway.

This decision reflects SAPS’s commitment to maintaining leadership stability and effectiveness within the province’s police force.

SAPS spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said the decision followed consultations with the provincial government.

#sapsHQ The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirms the reappointment of Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi as the Provincial Commissioner of KwaZulu-Natal on a five-year fixed term contract.

His reappointment follows consultation with the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Mr… pic.twitter.com/ZJMAXuznH0

— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) March 28, 2026

“His reappointment follows consultation with the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Thami Ntuli,” she said.

The provincial government and local residents had consistently advocated for the retention of his leadership amidst escalating crime concerns in the area.

Mkhwanazi to remain in charge

On Saturday, Ntuli told reporters that General Fannie Masemola had written to him formally requesting concurrence, which he has now given.

“On the issue of contract renewal, it has been renewed. The national commissioner has written to me and I have also given concurrence formally, officially, so now… I don’t think there is an issue regarding that,” Ntuli said.

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The necessary formalities for the contract renewal are expected to be completed soon, ensuring that Mkhwanazi will remain in charge of KZN’s policing until at least 2031.

“General Masemola has wished Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi well as he continues to provide stability and decisive leadership in the province of KZN,” Mathe added.