Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee investigating serious claims of corruption, criminal infiltration, political interference, and abuse of power within the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the broader criminal justice system kicked off its 2026 proceedings today with testimony from former acting National Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Khomotso Phahlane.
The committee, chaired by Mr. Molapi Soviet Lekganyane, was established last year to probe explosive allegations first made public by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi in July 2025. Mkhwanazi accused senior police and justice officials of links to criminal syndicates, unlawful disbandment of specialized units like the Political Killings Task Team, moratoriums on key appointments, and political meddling that undermined law enforcement efforts.
After a December recess, the committee held a planning meeting earlier this month and resolved to push forward with the second phase of oral hearings. Today’s session marked the resumption, with Phahlane appearing as the first witness of the year. He addressed the circumstances of his controversial removal and suspension from office during his earlier tenure (2015–2017), rejecting narratives that corruption drove his exit and describing the process as illegal and politically motivated. Phahlane reportedly requested that questioning conclude by 8 p.m. to allow sufficient time for his evidence.
The inquiry has already featured high-profile testimonies from figures including National Police Commissioner Gen Fannie Masemola, suspended Deputy National Commissioner Lt Gen Shadrack Sibiya, National Prosecuting Authority head Adv Shamila Batohi, former ministers, and others. Earlier sessions highlighted tensions within SAPS leadership, including strained relationships linked to high-profile cases and decisions on task teams.
Notably, some lines of questioning have touched on past events with ties to Johannesburg. For instance, Lt Gen Sibiya’s testimony in October 2025 referenced his previous role heading the City of Johannesburg’s Group Forensic Investigation Services under then-Mayor Herman Mashaba, where he oversaw probes into municipal corruption—cases allegedly stalled at the NPA level.
The committee’s mandate, granted under National Assembly Rule 253, has been extended to February 20, 2026, to complete its work and deliver a final report. Six more witnesses are slated to appear in the coming weeks as the panel seeks to establish the veracity and impact of Mkhwanazi’s claims.