Urgent Warning For All Christians: SACOFF calls for immediate presidential action

Article source: Supplied

The South African Community of Faith-Based Fraternals (SACOFF) is deeply disturbed by the recent public allegations made by Lt. General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, implicating Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu in what appear to be serious acts of interference, political intimidation, and unlawful instructions within SAPS operations.

These claims, made by a senior and respected law enforcement officer, raise grave concerns about the independence of the police service, the rule of law, and the political will to uphold constitutional accountability.

Allegations Must Not Be Dismissed
Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi’s testimony – delivered under oath – speaks to:

• Political pressure to manipulate police operations
• Alleged instruction to withdraw a case against a high-profile individual
• A culture of intimidation and backroom coercion
• Systemic risk to public confidence in the justice system

These are not matters of internal dispute; they represent a crisis of governance and trust, particularly in a country already overwhelmed by rising crime, corruption, and public disillusionment.

SACOFF’s Position:
As a body representing tens of thousands of churches, and by extension millions of South African citizens, SACOFF states the following:

1. We strongly condemn any form of political interference in law enforcement. The rule of law must remain sacred and independent of political manipulation.
2. We call on His Excellency, President Cyril Ramaphosa, to act decisively and transparently. This includes:
   • Temporary leave for implicated parties pending the outcome of a full and independent investigation.
   • Appointing a judicial commission of inquiry or designating the Office of the Public Protector to handle this matter with urgency.
   • Ensuring parliamentary oversight and public updates throughout the investigative process.
3. We urge all faith communities and civil society organisations to remain alert, prayerful, and vocal in demanding justice, truth, and integrity in public office.

Pastor Bert Pretorius, President – SACOFF

Statement from the President of SACOFF:
“The Church will not remain silent while the integrity of our justice system is threatened. We stand with every courageous voice that speaks out against wrongdoing. We are calling on President Ramaphosa to take bold, visible action—not for political survival, but for the sake of our nation’s soul.”
Pastor Bert Pretorius, President – SACOFF

SACOFF’s Next Steps:

• A National Day of Prayer for Justice and Governance will be announced, mobilising churches across provinces to intercede for South Africa’s leadership and institutions.
• A faith-based advisory submission will be developed and submitted to Parliament and the Presidency with proposals for ethical governance frameworks and protection of whistle-blowers.

About SACOFF
The South African Community of Faith-Based Fraternals & Federations (SACOFF) is a national umbrella body that unites faith-based fraternals, federations, churches, and ministries to drive moral, social, and economic transformation in South Africa. Founded by Pastor Bert Pretorius, SACOFF was established to mobilize faith leadership as a collective force for nation-building, justice, and community development.

With 225 member organizations representing over 19,998 churches across South Africa, SACOFF provides a collaborative platform for faith leaders to engage with government, civil society, and the private sector. Through advocacy, partnership, and grassroots action, SACOFF empowers communities to address urgent challenges such as poverty, violence, inequality, and corruption.

The organization supports initiatives in education, community safety, health, youth and family support, economic empowerment, and disaster relief. Regional and local chapters ensure representation and responsiveness to the needs of communities at every level.

SACOFF values unity in diversity and embraces the varied theological and cultural expressions within South Africa’s faith landscape. It is committed to promoting integrity, compassion, and servant leadership among its members.

SACOFF exists not just as an organization but as a movement—calling faith leaders to rise, speak, and act together for the healing and advancement of South Africa.

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Date published: 10/07/2025
Feature image: Image for illustrative purposes only. Artwork adapted from www.flickr.com/photos/governmentza

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