National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza has approved yet another extension for Parliament’s ad hoc committee investigating allegations made by Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
The committee now has until 12 June 2026 to finalise and submit its report to the National Assembly, marking the fifth time its deadline has been pushed back.
The investigation was initially expected to be completed by the end of October 2025. However, the deadline was subsequently extended to 28 November, then 20 February 2026, followed by 31 March and later 30 April.
Why Parliament Extended The Mkhwanazi Inquiry Again
Some members of Parliament have previously voiced concern over the repeated delays, warning that continued requests for more time could become an embarrassment for the institution.
Others argued that the drawn-out process risked disrupting the work of other parliamentary committees.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, 13 May, Didiza said she was empowered by the National Assembly’s rules to approve the extension.
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“The ad hoc committee proceeded with its work but could not complete it by the extended date of 30 April 2026,” the statement reads.
“Therefore, I have decided in terms of assembly rule 253(6)(c) to revive the ad hoc committee, the committee to (a) maintain the same mandate and membership as agreed by the assembly on 23 July 2025; (b) incorporate in its work the proceedings and all the work done up to and including 30 April 2026; and (c) report to the assembly by no later than 12 June 2026.”
Committee Moves To Finalise Report After Public Hearings
The committee wrapped up its public hearings in mid-March and is now focused on drafting its final report.
Mkhwanazi was the last witness to appear before the panel.
During the committee’s most recent meeting on 28 April, members highlighted delays in receiving the evidence leaders’ report. They cited limited resources, outstanding transcripts and the extensive volume of testimony that still needs to be organised into thematic areas in accordance with the committee’s terms of reference.
The committee is expected to reconvene later this month as it works toward completing its findings.
High-Profile Witnesses Who Testified Before Parliament
Since public hearings began on 7 October 2025, the committee has heard evidence from several prominent figures.
Among them were tenderpreneur Vusimuzi Matlala, former National Director of Public Prosecutions Shamila Batohi, National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola, Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, former Police Minister Bheki Cele and suspended Deputy National Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya.
Other witnesses included suspended Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi, alleged political fixer Oupa Brown Mogotsi, Crime Intelligence head Dumisani Khumalo, forensic investigator Paul O’Sullivan and former acting National Police Commissioner Khomotso Phahlane.
