Dear Editor
The Democratic Alliance (DA) welcomes the decision taken by the joint sitting of the Portfolio Committees on Police and Justice & Constitutional Development to establish an ad hoc committee to urgently investigate the serious allegations raised by Lt General Mkhwanazi.
This is a crucial and long overdue step toward ensuring transparency, accountability and restoring public trust in South Africa’s law enforcement institutions. It also reflects Parliament’s constitutional duty to provide effective oversight particularly when allegations of such a serious nature emerge from within the senior ranks of SAPS.
By establishing this committee, Parliament is signalling its commitment to swift action and meaningful accountability.
We urge that clear terms of reference be finalised without delay, accompanied by a firm time-bound mandate to ensure that the truth is not buried beneath bureaucracy or derailed by political interference. South Africans deserve answers and transparency, and they deserve them quickly.
The DA reiterates that only a fearless and independent inquiry can begin to restore integrity within policing in South Africa. The rot within our law enforcements institutions can no longer be ignored, downplayed or swept under the rug. Parliament must now rise to the occasion and ensure that this committee delivers the accountability the country desperately needs.
We will monitor the progress on this ad hoc committee closely and continue to demand real action against those who have violated their oaths.
South Africans are watching. And they deserve action not more empty promises.
Regards
Lisa Schickerling MP
DA Deputy Spokesperson on Police