Cape town: Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee, established to investigate allegations made by Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, has selected Member of Parliament (MP) Molapi Soviet Lekganyane as its chairperson. The committee convened for the first time to initiate the investigation into claims concerning an alleged criminal syndicate infiltrating law enforcement and intelligence services.

According to South African Government News Agency, the provincial police commissioner also made allegations implicating the judiciary, prosecutors, politicians, businesspeople, and Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, who was subsequently placed on leave of absence by President Cyril Ramaphosa. During his opening address to the committee, Lekganyane emphasized the importance of uncovering the truth for the citizens of South Africa. He highlighted the committee’s responsibility to act on behalf of the people, acknowledging the public’s reliance on their elected representatives to address these serious allegations.

Parliament released a statement detailing the committee’s mandate to investigate the “veracity and implications of all the allegations made by. Mkhwanazi.” During its inaugural meeting, the committee agreed to finalize the draft terms of reference by Friday, allowing members to provide input beforehand. Additionally, the committee instructed Parliament Legal Services to safeguard the process and citizens’ rights throughout the investigation.

The committee is scheduled to reconvene next week to further discuss its program and terms of reference.