Parliament Set for Second Day of Testimony from KZN Police Commissioner Mkhwanazi

Committee Reconvenes Amid Tense Start

Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee investigating allegations against KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi is set to reconvene on Wednesday for the second day of testimony. The session follows a rocky start on Tuesday, when MPs raised concerns about a supplementary statement submitted by Mkhwanazi.

The inquiry, which began under high public scrutiny, was delayed as MPs held a five-hour closed session to review and amend the document. Committee chairperson Molapi Lekganyane explained that the statement needed adjustments to meet the committee’s standards.

“We wanted to satisfy ourselves that whatever product is presented here is exactly that,” Lekganyane said, highlighting the importance of accuracy and clarity for such a sensitive investigation.

Revisions and Reassurances

Advocate Norman Arendse SC, the committee’s chief evidence leader, confirmed that the statement had been revised in consultation with Mkhwanazi. Paragraph 8 and references to the earlier version were removed to address MPs’ concerns.

“The issues raised are fixed and cured in consultation with General Mkhwanazi,” Arendse said, while apologising for the delay.

The revisions were welcomed by MPs across party lines. ANC MP Khusela Sangoni-Diko noted that the ANC was satisfied with the corrections, while MK Party MP Sibonelo Nomvalo urged the committee to move forward.

“South Africans want to hear General Mkhwanazi testify,” Nomvalo said, reflecting the public’s expectation for transparency and accountability.

Procedural Tension on Day One

Tuesday’s session also saw a brief procedural disagreement when EFF leader Julius Malema reminded the committee not to interrupt Arendse unnecessarily. Malema emphasized that members had agreed to allow the evidence leader to present without disruption, unless clarification was needed.

Lekganyane responded, clarifying that his intervention was meant to ensure fairness and equal opportunity for all committee members to participate.

The exchange highlighted the delicate balance of procedure, politics, and public interest surrounding the inquiry.

What to Expect on Day Two

Wednesday’s session is expected to see MPs begin direct questioning of Mkhwanazi on the allegations against him. Observers anticipate probing on issues ranging from operational oversight in KwaZulu-Natal to internal police conduct, with the public closely watching for transparency in the process.

Social media reaction has been lively, with South Africans expressing a mix of anticipation and frustration over the slow start. Many are calling for clear answers and accountability, reflecting the national interest in policing and governance.

As the inquiry continues, the committee faces the task of balancing political sensitivities with the public’s demand for justice, making Wednesday’s proceedings pivotal in shaping both the narrative and potential outcomes of this high-profile investigation.

{Source: IOL}

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