Major General Van Rooyen Testifies at Madlanga Commission: Minister Had No Authority to Disband Task Team

Major General Patronela Van Rooyen has told the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry that Police Minister Senzo Mchunu did not have the authority to disband the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT).

Testifying on Thursday, Van Rooyen, who serves as the Component Head of Governance, Legislation and Policy within the Legal Services Division of the South African Police Service (SAPS) explained that the statutory framework clearly outlines the chain of command and responsibilities in such decisions.

She is the third witness to take the stand at the Commission, which is investigating allegations of criminality, political interference, and corruption in the criminal justice system.

Van Rooyen’s testimony comes after earlier witnesses raised concerns about improper executive interference in policing matters, which they argue undermines the independence and operational integrity of SAPS.

The Commission, chaired by Justice Madlanga, is expected to continue hearing evidence from senior officials and experts in the coming weeks.