KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has received widespread praise from South Africans after being honoured as 2025 Newsmaker of the Year at an event hosted by the National Press Club in Pretoria.
The recognition has sparked an outpouring of support online, with many South Africans saying Mkhwanazi deserves every accolade possible for what they describe as his bravery in exposing corruption and alleged political interference within policing structures.
Many citizens praised the provincial police commissioner for speaking out on issues they believe have long remained hidden, particularly allegations involving organised crime, drug cartels and corruption within law enforcement.
Some social media users argued that without Mkhwanazi’s interventions, South Africans may never have fully understood the alleged extent to which criminal syndicates influence powerful political figures and senior police officials, raising concerns about public trust in the South African Police Service (SAPS).
The commissioner’s supporters say his willingness to confront difficult issues publicly has restored hope among many South Africans who have grown frustrated with crime, corruption and perceived failures within the criminal justice system.
Mkhwanazi, however, has maintained that his actions are not about popularity or recognition, insisting that his work is an act of duty informed by conscience, responsibility and love for the country.
