Parliament’s ad hoc committee, established to investigate allegations of threats to national security made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, has elected Molapi Lekganyane as its chairperson.
This follows the suspension of Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, who has been placed on special leave amid the scandal.
Lekganyane, a member of the African National Congress (ANC), serves on the committee, which is set to begin its inquiry into Mkhwanazi’s claims of widespread corruption within the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the broader criminal justice system.
Speaking to VOC News, political analyst Professor Dirk Kotze said the committee’s first task will be to thoroughly interrogate Commissioner Mkhwanazi about his allegations.
“They will need to examine what General Mkhwanazi said in his public statements. I expect he will be one of the first to appear before them, where he’ll have to provide detailed evidence to support his claims,” Kotze explained.
There have been counter-allegations from certain political quarters suggesting Mkhwanazi may have come forward prematurely due to skeletons in his own closet. Professor Kotze emphasised that the committee’s job is to determine the validity of such claims through a formal process.
The committee holds powers similar to a Commission of Inquiry, including the ability to summon individuals to testify under oath. However, it lacks the extensive infrastructure of a formal commission. “They won’t have dedicated evidence leaders or investigative teams to conduct field investigations. Their focus will be on scrutinising the evidence presented directly to Parliament,” Kotze added.
Key figures expected to be summoned include Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, General Fannie Masemola, and other senior officials implicated in Mkhwanazi’s allegations.
The committee’s work is being closely watched, as its findings could have significant implications for SAPS and the credibility of South Africa’s criminal justice system.
Listen to the full interview below:
VOC News
Photo: Pixabay
