Riah Phiyega, the former National Police Commissioner, has vigorously denied the allegations of corruption that were made during a parliamentary inquiry. She maintains that her tenure as the head of the South African Police Service (SAPS) was characterised by institutional accountability, lawful process, and integrity.
Phiyega refuted allegations of improper conduct and unfair dismissals under her stewardship in her testimony to Parliament’s oversight committee, characterising them as “misleading, politically motivated, and devoid of fact.”
“I have never interfered with disciplinary processes, tenders, or appointments for personal gain.” She stated, “I acted in accordance with SAPS regulations and on recommendations from authorised structures.”
The former commissioner, who held the position from 2012 to 2015, contended that her administration prioritised the restoration of internal discipline and the strengthening of governance systems. She stated that the disciplinary actions taken against specific officers were based on internal investigations, not factional conflicts.
Her comments are being made in the context of heightened scrutiny of leadership decisions made during her tenure, as certain former SAPS officials have accused her of politically motivated dismissals and ill-treatment. Phiyega characterised these assertions as an endeavour to “rewrite history for personal absolution.”
Furthermore, she contended that the police service has encountered challenges in reforming its entrenched internal networks, which have resulted in leaders who enforce accountability being easy targets for blame when corruption is revealed.
“Any Commissioner who engages with corrupt interests will encounter resistance.” She continued, “I am not taken aback; however, I will not permit my name to be diminished in order to facilitate the rehabilitation of others.”
Political analysts observe that the hearing is indicative of the persistent tensions within SAPS leadership structures, where allegations of factional loyalty persist in conjunction with enquiries regarding governance and reform.
The final findings of the committee have not yet been disclosed; however, the session has reignited national discourse regarding the politicisation of disciplinary management, leadership ethics, and accountability in policing.
Phiyega expressed her support for “fair and lawful scrutiny,” but she cautioned against “smear tactics disguised as oversight.”
The former commissioner is adamant that her record will be based on evidence, not speculation, as Parliament compiles its report.
