General Gopaul says Mchunu contacting him directly inappropriate

Suspended Minister Senzo Mchunu appeared before Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee in Cape Town.

The Madlanga Commission has heard that it was “not appropriate” for Police Minister Senzo Mchunu to communicate directly with General Anthony Gopaul, who was at the time district commissioner in Ilembe, KwaZulu-Natal.

General Gopaul says that Mchunu was meant to speak to his principal about the death of ANC councilor Phendukani Mabhida.

General Gopaul has testified how Mchunu wanted regular updates regarding the murder of Phendukani Mabhida, an ANC councilor.

“And you also now explained that in ordinary circumstances, politicians would typically talk to your principal, would talk to your superior. That’s correct, Chair. So, in this context, was it appropriate for the minister to reach out to you seeking information concerning the murder of councilor Mabida, in your opinion? Chair, from my protocol training, it is not appropriate.“

MADLANGA COMMISSION | Witness E says, “My interaction with the Minister [Mchunu] were initiated by him in late December 2024.” pic.twitter.com/fTdhEs9gWD

— SABC News (@SABCNews) January 26, 2026