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South Africa’s Police Minister Senzo Mchunu will retain his political role within the ruling African National Congress (ANC) while facing a judicial probe into allegations of meddling in law enforcement for political gain. The party’s secretary-general, Fikile Mbalula, confirmed Monday that Mchunu remains eligible for ANC duties under its “step-aside” policy, which mandates suspension only for members formally charged or arrested. Mchunu, currently on special leave from his government position, attended an ANC National Working Committee meeting in Cape Town as the party defended its stance.

Mbalula emphasized that the rule’s criteria are clear: “The rule only kicks in when someone is arrested or appears in court,” he stated, noting Mchunu has not been criminally charged. The minister is under investigation by a judicial commission over claims of political interference in police operations, a matter the ANC says will be addressed through due process. “An independent judge and panel will hear the facts,” Mbalula added, according to TimesLIVE.

The step-aside policy, designed to safeguard the ANC’s reputation, has previously led to the suspension of high-profile figures like former Secretary-General Ace Magashule and ex-Minister Zizi Kodwa, both charged with corruption. Critics have accused the party of uneven enforcement, but Mbalula rejected claims of bias, stressing that President Cyril Ramaphosa had already placed Mchunu on administrative leave. “The president has already put him aside,” he said, arguing the rule is applied uniformly.

Mbalula also highlighted the Constitutional Court’s endorsement of the policy, which aligns with the ANC’s constitution. The party will await the judicial commission’s findings before deciding further action. “If there’s wrongdoing, the ANC’s renewal process will kick in,” he said, referencing internal reforms aimed at addressing governance and ethical concerns.

The case underscores ongoing tensions within the ANC as it balances accountability with procedural fairness. While Mchunu’s continued party role reflects adherence to current guidelines, the investigation’s outcome could test the credibility of the step-aside rule, particularly amid public scrutiny of political influence in state institutions. The ANC’s approach signals a cautious strategy, prioritizing legal processes over immediate disciplinary measures—a stance that may shape perceptions of its commitment to transparency ahead of national elections.