A joint meeting between the on Police and the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development has officially adopted a report recommending that the National Assembly (NA) establish an Ad Hoc Committee to investigate allegations made by Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkwanazi, the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service.
The report suggests that an Ad Hoc Committee is the most effective Parliamentary mechanism to thoroughly investigate and deliberate on the issues raised. The committees recommended the establishment of this Ad Hoc Committee in accordance with NA Rule 253, highlighting that the committee’s scope is task-specific and time-bound, unlike the ongoing and often competing priorities of portfolio committees. The report also stressed the importance of the NA ensuring a swift process.
The committees propose that, if the NA decides to establish the Ad Hoc Committee, the process should be completed within 90 days of its establishment, although the timeframe may be adjusted if necessary.
Given the seriousness of the allegations and their potential impact on the rule of law, governance, and accountability within the criminal justice sector, the committees believe that a focused, multi-party Ad Hoc Committee will ensure a transparent, thorough, and fair process. They also noted that the composition and terms of reference of such a committee are not within the joint meeting’s purview.
The meeting reiterated Parliament’s constitutional responsibility to oversee state institutions and uphold the principles of justice, integrity, and accountability. The committees reaffirmed their commitment to handling this matter with the seriousness it deserves, in line with the Constitution and Parliamentary rules.
The report adopted today will be submitted to the NA for consideration.
