By: Zilungile Mkhize
Parliament’s ad hoc committee, established to probe explosive allegations of police corruption and political interference made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, reconvenes today to adopt its terms of reference.
Last week, Members of Parliament failed to reach consensus on the final draft, delaying the formal start of the inquiry.
The committee is expected to investigate claims of undue influence in policing structures, including allegations involving suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, who is accused of interfering in operational matters.
Mkhwanazi, who made the allegations during a high-profile media briefing earlier this year, has been called as a key witness in the inquiry. His testimony is anticipated to shed light on what he described as attempts by political figures to undermine law enforcement in the province.
Public participation will form a central part of the process, with the committee inviting written submissions and possible oral testimony from members of the public and civil society organisations.
Once the terms of reference are formally adopted, public hearings will begin in Johannesburg, with further sittings expected in KwaZulu-Natal and potentially other provinces as the inquiry unfolds.
The inquiry comes amid growing calls for accountability and transparency within South Africa’s policing and security structures.
