By Johnathan Paoli
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has praised Parliament’s much anticipated Ad Hoc Committee that will investigate the alleged capture of South Africa’s law enforcement agencies, which is set to officially begin its work on Tuesday.
It marks a crucial moment in the country’s oversight efforts to restore accountability and public trust in the criminal justice system.
EFF spokesperson Sinawo Thambo said his party, which played a central role in pushing for the formation of the committee, believed it was a necessary first step in understanding the severity of the alleged corruption.
“This is an opportunity to demonstrate that Parliament can rise above partisanship and serve the national interest. The EFF will participate fully and fearlessly in this committee.
“We will ensure that no official, regardless of their rank, party affiliation, or proximity to power is spared scrutiny and that South Africa’s policing and justice system is restored,” Thambo said on Monday.
The Parliamentary inquiry follows explosive revelations made last month by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. He publicly accused senior police and government officials of political interference, irregular contracts, obstruction of investigations and the systematic dismantling of law enforcement capacity.
The committee was unanimously adopted by the National Assembly following a recommendation from a joint sitting of the Portfolio Committees on Police and Justice and Constitutional Development.
Key issues on the agenda include the alleged unlawful disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team; the alleged removal of 121 case dockets by Deputy National Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya; a moratorium allegedly placed by Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on critical appointments within crime intelligence; and possible irregularities in the awarding of a R360 million healthcare contract to a politically connected firm.
These allegations have already led to a high-profile political fallout, with both Mchunu and Sibiya currently on leave pending further investigations.
President Cyril Ramaphosa, while supporting the formation of this committee, also appointed a parallel judicial commission of inquiry to probe the broader implications of Mkhwanazi’s claims.
While the committee’s establishment has drawn widespread support, its credibility and leadership remain points of contention.
The EFF has called for the committee to be chaired by a Member of Parliament who is not affiliated with the Government of National Unity, warning that the investigation must be shielded from any potential conflict of interest, especially given the involvement of high-ranking ANC-aligned officials.
“Parliament must reclaim its role as a true oversight body, not a shield for executive wrongdoing. It is in the public interest to ensure that the committee is not perceived as compromised or conflicted,” Thambo said.
With a deadline of 90 days to conclude its work and deliver a report to the National Assembly, the committee will have to move swiftly.
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