WATCH | Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi continues explosive testimony at Parliament’s ad hoc committee

Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee investigating serious allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi will reconvene on Wednesday for the second day of testimony.

This follows a tense start, when proceedings were delayed on Tuesday due to MPs’ dissatisfaction with Mkhwanazi’s 'supplementary' statement.

The committee held a five-hour closed session to address concerns about the document before allowing the inquiry to continue on Tuesday.

Committee chairperson Molapi Lekganyane said the statement required revision to meet the committee’s standards. “We wanted to satisfy ourselves that whatever product is presented here is exactly that,” he said.

Evidence leader Advocate Norman Arendse SC, confirmed that the statement had been amended, with paragraph 8 and references to the earlier version removed.

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

MPs welcomed the revised document. “The ANC is satisfied the issue of defects seems to be cured,” said ANC MP Khusela Sangoni-Diko, while MK Party MP Sibonelo Nomvalo urged the committee to move forward: “South Africans want to hear General Mkhwanazi testify.”

During Tuesday’s session, a brief disagreement unfolded over procedure when EFF leader Julius Malema reminded the chair that members had agreed not to interrupt the evidence leader unless clarity was needed.

“If no one brings anything to your attention, please don’t disrupt this. We are fine. We agreed like that,” said Malema.

Lekganyane clarified he was merely responding to a raised hand, saying it was about fairness to all members.

The committee will continue hearing evidence from Mkhwanazi on Wednesday, with MPs expected to begin their direct questioning.

hope.ntanzi@iol.co.za 

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