The parliamentary ad hoc committee investigating allegations of corruption within South Africa’s criminal justice system is set to conclude its hearings this week. The final sessions will feature the return of KwaZulu-Natal’s top police official, Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, for his closing testimony.
Mkhwanazi’s explosive press conference last year triggered the establishment of the inquiry, publicly implicating high-ranking officials, including Minister on special leave Senzo Mchunu and suspended Deputy National Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya. In response, National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza quickly initiated the committee to probe these claims.
Key Witnesses and Testimonies
Throughout the inquiry, the committee has heard from several prominent figures:
- Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi – First to provide oral evidence when hearings began on October 7, 2025.
- Bheki Cele – Former Police Minister, questioned over alleged R500,000 payments from crime figure Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.
- Cedric Nkabinde – Chief of Staff to Mchunu, accused of interfering in police operations and supporting the disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team.
- Robert McBride – Former head of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), accused of attempting to block the appointment of former Acting Commissioner Kgomotso Phahlane.
- Paul O’Sullivan – Forensic investigator, questioned on alleged criminal interference in the SAPS; later faced contempt of Parliament charges after leaving proceedings abruptly.
Committee Chairperson Soviet Lekganyane confirmed that hearings will conclude this week.
Following the closing testimonies, the committee will focus on drafting a report summarising all evidence presented. President Cyril Ramaphosa was also expected to submit written evidence on Monday ahead of National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola’s appearance.
Committee technical team member Christine Silkestone explained that the draft report is being continuously updated as hearings progress. The report will describe and organise the evidence, without assessing credibility, and will adhere strictly to the committee’s terms of reference. Once completed, it will be presented to the National Assembly with formal recommendations, a process expected to take several weeks.