The chairperson of Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee, Sihle Gana, has delayed a full update to members pending nominations for a new evidence leader, as the committee continues its inquiry into criminal infiltration, corruption, and political interference in South Africa’s criminal justice system. This follows months of high-profile testimony, disputes over witness security, and an unsuccessful bid to remove the current evidence leader, Advocate Norman Arendse, according to official committee proceedings and parliamentary statements.

Obstacles In Securing Testimony And Legal Guidance

The committee’s investigation has been marked by difficulty in ensuring the attendance of key witnesses, who have raised concerns relating to both legal representation and personal security. On 19 January 2026, businessman Brown Mogotsi was scheduled to provide testimony but indicated he was unable to attend, citing fears for his safety and uncertainties about adequate legal advice, the committee stated in its public updates.

Further complications arose when suspended Inspector General Imtiaz Fazel, in a written communication dated 9 March 2026, advised the committee that he was not authorised to share classified information relevant to their questions. “I am not lawfully entitled to disclose the relevant classified information to the Ad Hoc committee to answer any questions that may be posed by members of the committee,” Fazel explained in his letter.

Leadership Disputes And Next Steps For The Committee

Calls for evidence leader Advocate Norman Arendse’s recusal were dismissed by committee chairperson Soviet Lekganyane on 9 February 2026, who cited the advanced stage of proceedings and the significant groundwork already completed. “The recommendation by that organisation to remove the evidence leader is not considered prudent by the committee, given the significant amount of work already done and that the proceedings are nearing conclusion,” Lekganyane said during a committee session.

The committee has received a list of outstanding witnesses, with prominent figures such as private investigator Paul O’Sullivan and former Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) head Robert McBride still expected to appear. According to the committee, the preparation of new evidence leader nominations is being finalised before a comprehensive update will be presented by Gana, with further public hearings anticipated in the coming months.

The investigation highlights ongoing concerns about the independence and integrity of South Africa’s criminal justice system, as well as the practical challenges in addressing allegations of systemic corruption. The committee’s next major step will be to confirm the evidence leader and resume final witness hearings before compiling its full report for Parliament.