What began as a peaceful show of support quickly turned into a tense standoff when demonstrators marching in solidarity with KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi unexpectedly redirected their route toward the South African Police Service (SAPS) Provincial Headquarters in Durban.
Originally, the #HandsOffMkhwanazi march was supposed to travel from Curries Fountain Sports Development Stadium to Hoy Park.
But emotions ran high—and so did tensions—when participants decided to veer off course and head directly to SAPS offices.
From March to Confrontation: Protesters Storm Toward SAPS Offices
As the march approached its planned endpoint, the crowd abruptly made a U-turn.
The new destination? The SAPS Provincial Head Office.
Security forces scrambled to respond, forming a human barricade with shields and firearms as protesters gathered outside.
Speaking anonymously to The South African, one marcher explained the motivation behind the sudden change.
“We’re fed up with how things are going in this country,” the protester said.
“Mkhwanazi is standing up for what’s right.
Instead of suspending Police Minister Senzo Mchunu for allegedly interfering in investigations, the president just placed him on leave like it’s no big deal. That’s not enough.”
Why Protesters Are Rallying Behind Commissioner Mkhwanazi
The public show of support for Mkhwanazi follows serious accusations he made against Minister Mchunu, including interference with a task team probing political assassinations.
To the crowd, Mkhwanazi represents transparency and courage in a system they feel is failing them.
“He’s exposing things that were kept in the dark,” the anonymous protester continued.
“We’re saying hands off Mkhwanazi. South Africa has had enough of being run by criminals.”
National Police Commissioner Responds with Call for Calm
While emotions boiled over on the streets, National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola called for restraint.
He reminded citizens that a formal Commission of Inquiry has been established to investigate the claims.
“The president has taken action. A commission has been appointed.
We need to give it space to do its job,” Masemola said. “Let’s continue with our daily lives and work alongside the police.”
He also emphasized the importance of peaceful protest.
“Please, don’t damage property—not even a streetlight or dustbin,” he added.
“Let’s behave responsibly and support the investigation process.”
A Country on Edge, Waiting for Accountability
The #HandsOffMkhwanazi protest reflects a deeper frustration bubbling across South Africa.
While some welcome the president’s move to establish a commission, others feel it’s a weak response to serious allegations.