Mthethwa stays mum on Mdluli

POLICE Minister Nathi Mthethwa has refused to respond as attempts mount to overturn the reinstatement of crime intelligence boss Lieutenant-General Richard Mdluli.

The refusal comes after renowned human rights activist Mamphela Ramphele on Tuesday launched an urgent court application to have Mdluli removed from office and charged with murder and fraud.

Mdluli is believed to have political protection, thought to include that of President Jacob Zuma.

Mdluli last week confirmed he wrote a letter to the president promising assistance in his re-election campaign.

The letter sparked outrage and led to a spat between Mdluli and four senior police managers, including suspended police chief General Bheki Cele, who were accused of conspiring against Mdluli.

The spat saw Mthethwa removing Mdluli from his powerful position, placing him within the operational division and establishing a task team, headed by state law adviser Enver Daniels, to investigate Mdluli's allegations.

The case will be heard before the Pretoria High Court next month .