Ramaphosa suspends crime intelligence watchdog Imtiaz Fazel amid conduct probe

President Cyril Ramaphosa has suspended Inspector-General of Intelligence, Imtiaz Fazel, with immediate effect, pending the outcome of a formal investigation by Parliament’s Joint Standing Committee on Intelligence (JSCI).

The presidency confirmed this in an official statement on Wednesday night.

According to the statement, the JSCI recently notified Ramaphosa that it had received a complaint regarding Fazel’s conduct and would launch an inquiry under Section 7(4) of the Intelligence Services Act (Act 40 of 1994).

In line with Section 7(5) of the Act, the President holds the authority to suspend the inspector-general during the course of such an investigation.

Fazel, who was appointed as South Africa’s Inspector-General of Intelligence in November 2022, was responsible for overseeing the activities of the country’s intelligence services, ensuring they operate within the legal and constitutional framework.

His suspension marks a significant development in South Africa’s intelligence oversight landscape and raises critical questions about internal accountability.

This is because Ramaphosa established a commission of inquiry into the corruption of the police force, judiciary and the intelligence agencies.

This is after KZN Police Commissioner, Lt-Gen. Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi alleged that there was serious corruption in the SAPS and also other arms of government.

“The Inspector-General may be suspended by the President pending a decision in such investigation,” the Act states, underscoring the seriousness of the allegations now under review.

While details of the complaint remain confidential, the move signals the government’s commitment to transparency and legislative oversight within the intelligence community.

Fazel’s suspension is expected to draw sharp scrutiny from political and civil society circles, especially given his watchdog role in a sector historically marred by secrecy and controversy.

The JSCI investigation will determine the next steps, including whether Fazel will be reinstated or face further action.

The Presidency has not indicated who will serve as acting inspector-general during the suspension period.

Meanwhile, Police Minister, Senzo Mchunu, is expected to appear before the Parliament’s ad hoc committee investigating the corruption.

kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za

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