ANC Member of Parliament Soviet Lekganyane has been elected uncontested to chair Parliament’s newly formed ad hoc committee tasked with investigating explosive allegations of criminality, political interference, and corruption within the South African Police Service (SAPS). The probe follows damning accusations by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who implicated suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and other senior officials in meddling with investigations and having ties to criminal elements.
Opposition Raises Concerns Over Impartiality
Lekganyane’s appointment has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties, including ActionSA, the MK Party (MKP), and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), who argue that his ANC affiliation could compromise the committee’s credibility.
MKP MP Sibonelo Nomvalo voiced skepticism, stating, “We do not have confidence in the chairperson not because we doubt his competency, but because the ANC has already demonstrated it is defending those implicated—like Minister Mchunu.” Nomvalo emphasized that the committee’s work must remain free from political influence, given its focus on national security and police integrity.
EFF leader Julius Malema’s party similarly called for an opposition-led chair, with political analyst Khanyi Magubane suggesting Malema himself would have been a more impartial choice. “If the ANC is serious about rooting out corruption, the chair should not come from their ranks,” Magubane argued, citing concerns that Lekganyane might steer the inquiry to protect ANC figures.
High-Stakes Investigation
The allegations, which include claims of high-ranking officials obstructing justice and colluding with criminals, have heightened public scrutiny. Mkhwanazi’s accusations—though not explicitly naming the ANC—were interpreted by opposition figures as pointing to ANC members, particularly after Mchunu referenced individuals tied to the party in his response.
The committee’s draft terms of reference, delayed but finally distributed to members, are already under scrutiny. Nomvalo confirmed the MKP would push for expanded mandates to ensure no key issues are overlooked. “We will not tolerate laziness. This committee must act with urgency and precision,” he said.
Defending the Process
Supporters of Lekganyane’s appointment point to past ANC-led committees—such as those probing Eskom corruption—as evidence of impartial outcomes. However, critics highlight instances like the Higher Education Committee, where an ANC chair was accused of shielding officials from tough questioning.
With the ANC holding the majority in Parliament, Lekganyane’s leadership will face intense scrutiny as the committee begins its work next week. As Magubane noted, “The public expects answers, not another cosmetic exercise.”
The probe’s findings could have far-reaching implications for SAPS and the ANC-led government, already under pressure to address systemic corruption. For now, all eyes remain on whether the committee will deliver transparency—or deepen political divisions.