The ongoing investigation into police corruption has taken a contentious turn as National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola publicly accused Police Minister Senzo Mchunu of overstepping his authority regarding the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT). This revelation came during the second consecutive day of Masemola’s testimony before the Ad Hoc Committee evaluating allegations of misconduct within the police force.
Masemola’s assertion that the PKTT is effectively fulfilling its mandate was met with intense scrutiny from committee members, particularly from Democratic Alliance (DA) MP Glynnis Breytenbach. During the session, Breytenbach pressed Masemola for clarity on why he hadn’t firmly opposed Mchunu’s directive to disband the PKTT, which has been pivotal in combating political violence across South Africa.
“Even though I told him that this team is doing a good work, we are not supposed to close it. He said we must close it,” Masemola stated, encapsulating the frustration many feel towards the unnecessary dismantling of a crucial unit. Breytenbach responded with pointed criticism, insisting that Masemola should clearly delineate the boundaries of their respective roles, further stating, “Why you did tell him he is out of his terrain he is encroaching it and he must concern himself with his own business and you concern with yours.”
Masemola acknowledged the challenge, reiterating, “Well thanks honourable chair, like I said I did try to tell him let’s not close it. He insisted.” This exchange has shed light on the growing tension between police leadership and governmental oversight, raising important questions about accountability and the strategic direction of law enforcement.
In a dramatic display of accountability, some committee members expressed concern that Masemola was endangering public safety by not vigorously opposing Mchunu’s orders. They articulated a belief that the police chief has a fundamental duty to protect South African citizens from rampant criminality, a responsibility they feel is compromised by acquiescing to the minister’s wishes.
The debate surrounding the PKTT’s fate highlights a broader conflict within South Africa’s policing frameworks, underscoring a dilemma of governance, authority, and public safety. As the Ad Hoc Committee continues its probe into police corruption, the role of such task teams becomes increasingly paramount in the fight against crime and the ramifications of political violence.