A question of hierarchical protocol and accountability in the South African Police Services’ (SAPS) high ranks dominated Parliament on 10 October 2025.
The Ad Hoc Committee investigating Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s corruption allegations turned its focus to National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola.
This follows Mkhwanazi’s session with the Members of Parliament on 9 October 2025.
MALEMA QUESTIONS MASEMOLA ON SAPS PROTOCOL BREACH
The Economic Freedom Fighters’ (EFF) leader, Julius Malema, took centre stage with fierce questions directed at Masemola.
He grilled Masemola over what he described as a clear breach of protocol by Deputy National Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya.
Additionally, Malema questioned Masemola’s failure to act against Sibiya’s alleged insubordination.
He asked why Masemola allowed Sibiya to defy a direct instruction not to write a letter to disband the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT).
Reports suggest that Sibiya acted with the backing of Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, who is currently on special leave.
POLICE LEADERSHIP ACCOUNTABILITY
Malema pressed Masemola on internal disciplinary procedures by asking about the protocols.
“Now, what happens, what are the police protocols when your deputy is told by the most senior man, [the] highest authority, don’t do anything, don’t write this letter. I will attend to this matter myself, leave it,” Malema asked.
Additionally, he argued that Masemola only acted after public scrutiny increased, raising questions about internal discipline and SAPS accountability.
MALEMA QUESTIONS MASEMOLA ON FAILURE TO ACT
Furthermore, Malema questioned Masemola’s overall inaction.
“If General Mkhwanazi can open a case, you too had a duty to open a case,” he said.
He stressed that Masemola could have taken action and opened a case as the alleged actions took place in Pretoria, Gauteng, within his jurisdiction.
“You must accept that you did not act in a responsible manner as a commissioner,” he added.
COMMISSIONER’S RESPONSE FAILS TO ASSUAGE CREDIBILITY CONCERNS
The hearing highlighted concerns over SAPS leadership and its willingness to address internal wrongdoing.
While Masemola responded to questions, some Members of Parliament and observers expressed concern about the timeliness and effectiveness of actions taken.
Ultimately, the proceedings raise a broader question for South Africans. And that is, can SAPS maintain accountability internally, or does it act primarily under public scrutiny?
