The Parly committee investigating allegations of police misconduct and systemic failures in law enforcement says it will only be able to engage with KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi after the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry completes its current round of consultations.
This update was provided by Advocate Norman Arendse, who was officially confirmed as the evidence leader of Parliament’s ad hoc committee on Friday. Arendse addressed the committee during a progress report session on preparations for upcoming public hearings set to begin later this month.
According to Advocate Arendse, the Madlanga Commission has already made significant progress in its inquiry, which overlaps with some of the key issues under investigation by the Parly committee. The commission is currently taking a sworn statement from Commissioner Mkhwanazi and has been in consultation with him since earlier this month.
“They [Madlanga Commission] are already a long way down the road in terms of consulting him and taking a sworn statement, which they are hoping to complete this week,” Arendse explained. “So, in any event, we will only be able to consult with General Mkhwanazi once they’ve finalised their consultations with him.”
As a result, the Parly committee has reaffirmed its decision that Commissioner Mkhwanazi will be the first witness to appear before the committee once the hearings officially begin in September.
Parly Committee Adjusts Timeline Due to Ongoing Madlanga Commission Proceedings
The dual-track investigations—by the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry and Parliament’s ad hoc committee—have led to coordination discussions between the respective evidence leaders. Arendse said that while the two bodies would share relevant information where appropriate, they would operate independently in their findings and processes.
“We’ve agreed to share information if necessary, but we won’t be bound by what each other says,” Arendse stated.
He confirmed that initial engagements have already taken place with the evidence leaders of the Madlanga Commission, who are several steps ahead in terms of collecting testimonies and sworn statements. This collaboration is aimed at avoiding duplication of work and ensuring a coherent understanding of the matters at hand.
The Parly committee was established as part of Parliament’s response to growing concerns over corruption, inefficiency, and alleged political interference within various branches of the South African Police Service (SAPS). The ad hoc committee is mandated to investigate these claims thoroughly and recommend structural reforms to restore credibility and effectiveness within the policing sector.
Key focus areas for the committee include:
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The handling of politically sensitive investigations
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The role of provincial police commissioners in controversial law enforcement decisions
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Interference by political figures or external actors in operational policing
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Allegations of maladministration and the manipulation of crime statistics
With Commissioner Mkhwanazi expected to play a central role in these hearings, the committee’s evidence-gathering phase is being carefully timed to align with the availability of critical witnesses.
This inquiry marks a significant moment for Parliament’s oversight role, particularly in holding senior police leadership accountable for allegations that have eroded public trust. Advocate Arendse emphasized that the process must remain thorough, fair, and transparent.
By scheduling Mkhwanazi as the first key witness, the Parly committee is signaling its intention to begin its hearings with a comprehensive understanding of operations in KwaZulu-Natal—a province that has been repeatedly highlighted for irregular policing practices and alleged abuse of authority.
The Parly committee’s public hearings are set to commence in September 2025, with multiple witnesses expected to testify over several weeks. These hearings will be open to media and civil society organizations and are likely to generate significant public interest, especially given the political sensitivity of the topics being explored.
Meanwhile, committee members are continuing to gather preparatory materials, compile documents, and finalize logistics for witness engagements. Arendse indicated that additional witnesses are being identified and that subpoenas may be issued if voluntary cooperation is not secured.
As the Parly committee prepares to begin its inquiry into police conduct and institutional failures, its coordination with the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry demonstrates a deliberate and strategic approach to uncovering the truth behind years of controversy within SAPS. While the wait to speak with Commissioner Mkhwanazi adds a slight delay, it ensures that the committee receives the most accurate and comprehensive testimony possible.
With the country watching closely, the work of this Parly committee could prove pivotal in reforming the policing system and restoring public faith in law enforcement.
Source- EWN
