Picture: The Chairperson of the Ad Hoc Committee, Soviet Lekganyane
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
15 July 2026 – The Chairperson of the Ad Hoc Committee established to investigate the allegations made by the South African Police Service (SAPS) KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Soviet Lekganyane, has noted with concern misleading viral reports on several media platforms alleging that the committee has “exonerated”/”cleared” various individuals of wrongdoing. Lekganyane dismisses these reports as premature, irrational and gullible.
He further said he wishes to place on record that while the committee has begun deliberations on the draft preliminary report, no conclusion has been made. Lekganyane added that during its meeting yesterday, the committee considered inputs from its members on the second draft preliminary report, which was significantly enriched by the members.
“The third draft preliminary report may be available for further deliberations by next week. The committee’s adoption of the report will only happen two or more weeks after it has been shared with affected parties.
“The media commentary is akin to putting the cart before the horse based on a draft preliminary report that is subject to deliberations. Though members of the committee are in agreement with most of the contents of the report, there are equally varying findings and recommendations that have to be incorporated into the report for further deliberations,” he said.
Lekganyane appealed to members of the public to have confidence in the committee and in parliament to act in their best interests in the quest to safeguard South Africa’s criminal justice system and to ensure robust oversight is conducted. He said once the committee has concluded its processes, the Speaker of the National Assembly will inform the public accordingly.
“We further appeal to the public to exercise restraint and patience while the committee completes its work. We urge the public to trust the process and their elected representatives to make determinations that are evidence-based, impartial and judicious,” said Lekganyane.
The Guardian 