Political parties have unanimously agreed that Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner, should be the first witness to appear before the newly established ad hoc committee investigating allegations of corruption and threats to national security within the South African Police Service (SAPS).
The committee was formed following Mkhwanazi’s explosive claims in July, which implicated politicians, high-ranking SAPS officials, and Minister Senzo Mchunu, who has since been placed on special leave. The allegations point to systemic rot within the police service, raising serious concerns about governance and security.
Tight Deadline, Logistical Challenges
The committee is required to submit its findings to the National Assembly by 31 October, but doubts have already emerged over whether this deadline can be met. During its first extended sitting, discussions on procedural matters—including how to handle classified documents—dragged on, delaying the finalization of terms of reference.
One committee member expressed skepticism, stating: “If I look at the time we’ve spent today and we haven’t even finalized these terms of reference, I don’t think I’m the only one who foresees that we may not complete this investigation by the end of October.”
Committee chairperson Muli Leyan acknowledged the tight schedule but suggested that interim updates could be provided if necessary. “If the committee runs over the period decided by the National Assembly, we can at that stage decide whether to release an update report,” Leyan said.
Handling Classified Information
Parliament’s legal team confirmed that existing protocols for classified documents will apply. Sensitive materials will be stored in a double-locked safe, with access requiring coordination between the Speaker of Parliament (or her nominee) and the Secretary of Parliament (or his nominee). Documents will only be made available to committee members in a controlled environment to prevent leaks.
Witness Protection Concerns
The safety of witnesses, including Mkhwanazi, was also discussed, with parties agreeing that all necessary measures must be taken to protect those testifying.
Before the inquiry can begin in earnest, the committee must still finalize its draft program, a step that has already sparked concerns over further delays due to logistical hurdles.
As the probe prepares to get underway, all eyes will be on Mkhwanazi’s testimony—which could set the tone for what promises to be a high-stakes investigation into corruption at the highest levels of SAPS.
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