As Parliament convenes its ad hoc committee to probe serious allegations raised by Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, newly appointed chair ANC MP Molapi Soviet Lekganyane delivered a firm message to colleagues: constitutional duty must trump political affiliation.
1. Elected Unopposed as Committee Chair
Lekganyane, a veteran ANC member and National Assembly representative since June 2024, was nominated and unanimously elected to chair the committee investigating alleged wrongdoing within senior SAPS ranks. His appointment was welcomed across party lines.
2. Constitutional Law Takes Precedence Over Party Rules
In his first address, Lekganyane stated clearly: “This committee will not operate under ANC rules. … there’s only one law … that governs our conduct, and that’s the law of the Republic of South Africa.”
3. Peer Accountability Is Non-Negotiable
He challenged committee members directly:
“If I see Honourable James doing something outside of the law, I must say so. … If Honourable Skosana sees something unlawful, he must speak up.”
Lekganyane described this as essential peer review to uphold integrity.
4. Transparency, Accountability, Justice at the Core
Lekganyane emphasised that the committee’s actions would be guided by constitutional principles—not political loyalty or ideological pressure. He called for full transparency and commitment to justice.
5. A Stiff Warning Against Political Grandstanding
He discouraged political positioning or cover-ups:
“Protecting powerful interests at the expense of ordinary citizens must not happen here.”
His remarks were a clear rebuke to past practices of shielding officials.
Why This Matters
With serious corruption allegations involving senior SAPS members and possibly even cabinet ministers at stake, the committee’s leadership sets the tone for accountability. Lekganyane’s insistence on legal integrity aims to reassure the public that the probe will not be derailed by partisan politics.
Conclusion:
In the early days of a high-stakes investigation, Molapi Soviet Lekganyane’s message is unequivocal: South Africa’s law, not party loyalty, must lead the way. As the ad hoc committee progresses, Lekganyane’s leadership underscores the importance of peer accountability, justice, and the Constitution guiding every step forward.
