Police Commissioner Masemola Declares Testimony a Success Amid Intense Scrutiny on Corruption and Interference Claims
National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola has described his two-day appearance before Parliament’s ad hoc committee investigating police corruption as a success, stating he holds no grudges despite facing tough questions. Masemola wrapped up his testimony on Friday, 11 October 2025, where he was grilled on key issues like his failure to challenge the disbanding of a political killings task team and his agreement with allegations of political meddling in police affairs. Speaking after the session, he praised the committee’s handling of the proceedings, signalling a commitment to transparency amid growing concerns over the South African Police Service’s integrity.
The hearings, part of a broader probe into criminal infiltration and corruption within the justice system, come at a time when public trust in law enforcement is under strain. With South Africa’s crime rates remaining high and recent scandals exposing potential rot in the ranks, Masemola’s evidence has spotlighted leadership decisions and external influences that could undermine policing efforts.
Masemola’s Testimony and Key Admissions
During his sessions on Wednesday and Thursday, Masemola faced a barrage of queries from MPs. One major focus was his response to Police Minister Senzo Mchunu’s directive in December 2024 to disband the political killings task team, a unit tasked with probing assassinations linked to political motives, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal.
Masemola admitted he did not read the directive – addressed directly to him – until media reports brought it to light, despite being on approved leave at the time. This revelation raised eyebrows, with committee members questioning why he did not push back against the order, especially given the team’s role in tackling a surge of politically motivated murders.
Masemola explained that he accepted the minister’s decision as part of executive oversight, but MPs pressed him on whether this showed a lack of independence in police leadership. He maintained that the SAPS operates within its mandate and that such directives are not uncommon, though he conceded the need for better communication to avoid public confusion.
Another highlight was Masemola’s agreement with claims of political interference raised by KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. In his earlier testimony, Mkhwanazi alleged that politicians and external forces were meddling in police operations, including attempts to influence investigations into corruption and crime. Masemola echoed these concerns, stating he concurred with the assertions and emphasising the need to shield the SAPS from undue influence to maintain its effectiveness.
“I’m quite happy on how the committee conducted its business. I don’t have any hard feelings, I’m quite comfortable. I thank the members and the chairperson Soviet Lekganyane and all members of the committee,” Masemola said outside the hearings, underscoring his satisfaction despite the intense scrutiny.
Heated Exchanges Over Kenny Kunene Allegations
The testimony took a contentious turn when Masemola claimed that Patriotic Alliance deputy leader Kenny Kunene was present at the residence of murder suspect Katiso “KT” Molefe on two occasions during police operations. Molefe is accused in the killing of musician Oupa Sefoka, known as DJ Sumbody, in a case that has drawn widespread attention. Masemola stated that reports from his team confirmed Kunene was inside the house once and at the gate on another visit, where he was denied entry.
This drew sharp criticism from Patriotic Alliance MP Ashley Sauls, who accused Masemola of relying on hearsay and potentially misleading the nation. Sauls argued that Masemola was not present at the scenes and questioned the reliability of the police reports, suggesting they could be fabricated. “The police team is not immune to lie,” Sauls said, demanding evidence and claiming the commissioner was undermining his own credibility.
The exchange escalated, with Democratic Alliance MP Ian Cameron intervening to call the line of questioning irrelevant and a distraction from the inquiry’s core focus. MK Party MP Sibonelo Nomvalo also criticised Sauls for derailing proceedings, urging the committee to prioritise national issues over personal defences. Committee chairperson Soviet Lekganyane allowed the questioning to proceed within allocated time, but the spat highlighted tensions between political affiliations and the pursuit of truth.
Kunene has previously explained his presence, stating he was accompanying a journalist for an interview with Molefe at the time of the arrest. He resigned as a Johannesburg councillor to allow an internal probe, which later cleared him, leading to his reinstatement in September 2025.
Background on the Ad Hoc Committee and Broader Probe
The ad hoc committee was established by the National Assembly on 23 July 2025 to investigate allegations of criminal infiltration, corruption, and political interference in the criminal justice system. Sparked by Mkhwanazi’s explosive claims during the Madlanga Commission – an inquiry into political killings and related issues – the committee aims to uncover systemic problems within the SAPS and related bodies like the Independent Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC).
Mkhwanazi’s testimony earlier in the week was particularly damning, where he called for intelligence probes into media outlets and the jailing of journalists he accused of unethical practices tied to corruption. He praised some reporters for exposing graft but insisted on isolating those compromising investigations. The committee has heard from various witnesses, including Masemola as the second key figure, and is inviting public submissions to broaden its scope.
Critics, including civil society groups, have expressed frustration with MPs engaging in political point-scoring during hearings, arguing it detracts from addressing real issues like jurisdictional overlaps and police independence. The inquiry is expected to produce recommendations on reforms, potentially including stronger safeguards against interference and better accountability mechanisms.
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