Last year, former South African Police Commissioner, Bheki Cele, faced allegations of having regular communication with controversial businessman, Thoshan Panday. These allegations were brought to light when former KwaZulu-Natal Hawks boss, Johan Booysen, testified before the Moerane Commission of Inquiry. However, it was another testimony that caught the attention of the public and raised concerns about the integrity of the police force.
In October 2019, the former head of the police’s supply chain management, Colonel Navin Madhoe, testified before the Portfolio Committee on Police. He revealed that Cele had regular communication with former head of Crime Intelligence, Richard Mkhwanazi, who had close ties with Panday. Madhoe also stated that Cele had instructed him to award a tender to a company linked to Panday, despite the company not meeting the requirements.
This testimony sparked outrage and raised questions about Cele’s involvement with Panday and his alleged interference in the police’s procurement processes. However, it was another testimony that shed more light on the matter and brought further concerns to the forefront.
In November 2019, Mkhwanazi himself appeared before the Portfolio Committee on Police and confirmed Madhoe’s claims. He testified that Cele had indeed communicated with him regularly and had even instructed him to meet with Panday. Mkhwanazi also stated that he had received a call from Cele, asking him to assist Panday in obtaining a police clearance certificate for one of his companies.
This revelation caused a stir in the media and the public, with many questioning the motives behind Cele’s actions and his relationship with Panday. However, it also raised concerns about the state of the police force and the need for transparency and accountability within its ranks.
The fact that a high-ranking official like Cele was allegedly involved in such activities is a cause for concern. It not only tarnishes the reputation of the police force but also undermines the public’s trust in the institution. As a leader, Cele should be setting an example and upholding the values of integrity and honesty, rather than being involved in corrupt practices.
However, despite these allegations, Cele has maintained his innocence and denied any wrongdoing. He has stated that he had no knowledge of Panday’s illegal activities and that he was not aware of any communication between Mkhwanazi and Panday. He also denied interfering in the procurement processes and claimed that he was not involved in the awarding of any tenders.
The Portfolio Committee on Police has since called for a full investigation into the matter and has requested a report from the South African Police Service (SAPS) on the allegations. The committee has also urged the SAPS to take necessary action if any wrongdoing is found.
This incident has once again highlighted the need for a thorough and transparent investigation into corruption within the police force. It is crucial for the SAPS to maintain its integrity and regain the trust of the public. The police are meant to serve and protect the citizens, and any involvement in corrupt activities goes against this fundamental principle.
In light of these allegations, it is commendable that Mkhwanazi came forward and testified before the committee. His courage and honesty should be acknowledged, as it takes great courage to speak out against powerful individuals. It is also a reminder that there are still individuals within the police force who are committed to upholding the values of honesty and integrity.
In conclusion, the testimony of Mkhwanazi before the Portfolio Committee on Police has shed light on a concerning issue within the police force. It is now up to the SAPS and the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and take necessary action if any wrongdoing is found. The public deserves a police force that is free from corruption and is committed to serving and protecting the citizens. It is only through transparency and accountability that this can be achieved.
