Johnathan Paoli
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) Amendment Bill opened to public scrutiny on Wednesday via virtual platforms, with public hearings to consider and debate the extension of the Police Minister’s executive powers over the appointment of the head of the Ipid.
Following a decision to adopt the motion of desirability by the committee early last month – in line with National Assembly Rules – the process went ahead despite questions of constitutionality being raised by the Office of the Chief State Law Advisor among others and the lack of certification.
The Bill follows a 2019 amendment to the Ipid Act that strengthened the watchdog’s independence by preventing the arbitrary removal of the Ipid’s head, following the 2015 attempt to remove the Ipid executive director Robert McBride as part of a web of manipulation of justice and state security organs under former President Jacob Zuma.
ISS researcher and consultant
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