The African Transformation Movement (ATM) has welcomed the appointment of Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi to the National Crime Fighting Project, describing it as a critical step in confronting the country’s deeply entrenched organised crime networks.
The party said South Africa is at a “critical crossroads,” with criminal syndicates having infiltrated state institutions, destabilised communities, and undermined the rule of law.
ATM spokesperson Zama Ntshona said the appointment must go beyond symbolism and signal the beginning of a sustained and decisive crackdown on organised crime.
“What is required now is not only leadership, but leadership that is fearless, disciplined, and unyielding in the face of intimidation and corruption,” Ntshona said.
The party outlined several urgent priorities for the National Crime Fighting Project, including coordinated operations targeting drug trafficking routes. ATM warned that these supply chains continue to “poison the youth” while fuelling violent crime in both urban townships and rural communities.
Human trafficking was also highlighted as a growing concern, with the party calling for specialised and well-resourced interventions to protect victims and ensure perpetrators are prosecuted.
ATM further pointed to the rise in kidnapping syndicates, describing them as increasingly brazen. It said these networks require integrated intelligence operations and rapid-response policing units to effectively dismantle them.
Extortion, particularly in the construction sector and among small businesses, was identified as another major threat to economic stability. The party said these criminal activities not only disrupt livelihoods but also erode investor confidence in the country.
On corruption, ATM expressed alarm at recent developments emerging from the Madlanga Commission, where testimony and arrests of senior officials have pointed to widespread wrongdoing within both public and private institutions.
“These developments must not be treated as isolated incidents, but as evidence of systemic failure that requires a systemic response,” the party said.
ATM called for a thorough and uncompromising clean-up of the criminal justice system, emphasising that no individual should be shielded from accountability, regardless of rank or political affiliation.
While reaffirming the constitutional right to due process, the party warned against delays in the justice system, saying prolonged cases undermine public trust and deny victims justice.
The party also stressed the importance of protecting whistleblowers and community activists who expose criminal networks. It said that without adequate safeguards, fear and intimidation would continue to silence those willing to come forward.
ATM concluded by expressing confidence in Mkhwanazi’s leadership, wishing him “strength, wisdom, and unwavering courage” in his new role.
However, the party cautioned that his success would depend heavily on political will and the absence of interference.
“The mandate is clear: reclaim the authority of the state, restore the dignity of our communities, and ensure that the law is applied equally to all,” Ntshona said.
The ATM added that South Africans expect tangible results, including safer communities, functional institutions, and a justice system capable of both deterring crime and earning public trust.
