Parliament’s ad hoc committee, formed to scrutinise serious allegations related to national security, has commenced discussions on the management of classified information presented during its investigations. This development comes in the wake of alarming claims by KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, highlighting extensive corruption within the criminal justice system.
The committee is currently deliberating its terms of reference, an essential step that will shape its approach to tackling these pervasive threats. Among those contributing to the conversation was the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, which proposed that a protocol be established for the handling of classified and sensitive documents. Their submission underscored the importance of ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of the information reviewed.
In response to these concerns, the committee has resolved to adhere to the existing protocol for managing classified data, as outlined by Parliament’s legal advisor, Andile Tetyana. He detailed a meticulous approach to safeguarding sensitive documents: “The documents will be kept in a secure safe equipped with two different locks, accessible only by the Speaker of Parliament and the national secretary of parliament. Furthermore, nominated individuals will be responsible for the safekeeping of the keys. To gain access to the documents, both key bearers must be present to open the safe, and the materials will subsequently be transported to a designated area where only full committee members are permitted access.”
This structured arrangement aims to mitigate potential breaches of security and maintain the integrity of the investigation, fostering public trust in Parliament’s commitment to addressing the alleged corruption that threatens national stability. As discussions evolve and the terms of reference are finalised, the committee’s work remains crucial in restoring confidence in South Africa’s criminal justice system.