ANC Minister of Parliament Molapo Lekganyane. Image/ ParliamentofSA.
(The Post News)- Members of Parliament on the SAPS corruption committee stress their work’s critical national importance. They believe that addressing these serious claims is essential to restoring public trust. Furthermore it strengthens the integrity of law enforcement institutions.
The probing of allegations made last month by KwaZulu-Natal Police commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi were bizarre. He warned of potential threats to national security linked to police corruption, and is tasked to the committee.
The committee must compile and submit a comprehensive report to the National Assembly by October 31. This report outlines its findings, enhance policing, promote accountability, and improve overall governance within SAPS.
Members of the ad hoc committee debated a proposal by the African National Congress (ANC). It suggested that Parliament’s legal services should lead the process of presenting evidence during the inquiry. However, several opposition parties within the committee did not support this approach. It raised concerns about the independence and objectivity of internal parliamentary structures in such a high-stakes investigation.
The formation of the committee was prompted by serious accusations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. Who alleged widespread corruption within the SAPS. His claims implicated high-ranking officials, including members of SAPS senior management and Police Minister Senzo Mchunu.
After listening to views of all parties represented, members agreed it would be appropriate to lead the presentation of evidence.
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) MP Leigh-Ann Matthys expressed concerns about the ANC’s original proposal.
“The suggestion that Parliamentary Legal Services should lead the evidence process is fundamentally flawed.Something that’s compromised by parliamentary staff operating under the authority of the Speaker and the ANC’s Chief Whip,” she said.
The committee will finalize and approve its terms of reference.
According to these terms, KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi will be the first person to testify before the committee.
About the Author
