Mkhwanazi’s claims trigger R147.9 million probe into SAPS political meddling

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development has confirmed that the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into allegations of political interference and shielding of criminals within the South African Police Service (SAPS) is estimated to cost R147.9 million over six months.

“We can confirm that the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is responsible for the procurement process for services for the commission, in consultation with the commission chairperson and secretary,” said departmental spokesperson Terence Manase.

The commission, chaired by Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, was established by President Cyril Ramaphosa following explosive allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

The claims included interference by senior police officials, including Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, in politically sensitive investigations and the disbanding of elite anti-corruption units.

Manase confirmed that due to time constraints, the department has applied to the National Treasury for a deviation from standard procurement procedures and is awaiting feedback.

“We have since applied for deviations from the National Treasury, but the amount that we have put on the table is what we estimate.”

“I did not check what could be the reason and challenge for the deviation,” he told IOL News.

Manase said Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has expressed her intention to develop a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) or guiding framework for the establishment and operation of commissions of inquiry.

“The aim is to table this document at Cabinet for approval, thereby ensuring it becomes a government-sanctioned policy,” Manase said.

According to Manase, the envisioned SOP will promote consistency, enhance efficiency, and ensure cost-effectiveness.

It will cover key operational areas including:

- Organisational structure

- Reporting formats

- Information security and access

- Implementation and monitoring mechanisms

- Compensation structures for employees, commissioners, evidence leaders, and legal teams

- Administrative costs such as office leases, website setup, and security

“The SOP will provide a ready-made blueprint that can be followed whenever a commission of inquiry is announced by the president, eliminating the need to design processes from scratch each time,” said Manase.

Justice Madlanga, a respected jurist and former Chief Justice candidate, addressed the media on Monday, assuring the public that preparations for the commission’s work are well under way. 

Public hearings are expected to begin in August, although no specific start date has been confirmed due to ongoing evidence assessments and consultations.

“The fact that General Mkhwanazi made the allegations doesn’t mean we are immediately ready for hearings,” Madlanga said. 

“There must first be assessments and further consultations.”

The commission is currently in its setup phase, including the procurement of a venue in Gauteng, where the hearings will be held.

Once the location is finalised, the public will be informed, including how to submit information online to support the inquiry.

Madlanga emphasised the importance of public trust and transparency, given the gravity of the allegations, and stated that consultation with the commission’s first witness is imminent.

Jeremy Michaels, spokesperson for the commission, opened Monday’s briefing by pointing out the importance of punctuality, structure, and public accountability throughout the inquiry.

The commission will run parallel to ongoing Parliamentary investigations, after mounting pressure from police unions and civil society groups for urgent presidential intervention to restore integrity within the SAPS.

simon.majadibodu@iol.co.za

IOL Politics