Khusela Diko, an ANC lawmaker, and Leigh-Ann Mathys, an EFF lawmaker, spat over who asked the acting police minister the “wrong” questions. A contentious committee session with Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia escalated on Tuesday when African National Congress (ANC) MP Khusela Diko challenged EFF MP Leigh-Ann Mathys with a question of order. Cachalia was interrogated by Mathys about “the political shielding of compromised police generals,” and a confrontation ensued as a result.
Interrupting, Diko criticised the inquiry, calling it “unparliamentary and speculative,” and said it compromised the minister’s credibility and the right to due process. It is out of order to ask such question, Chairperson. Diko made the accusation that the honourable member was assuming wrongdoing without proof, which caused mutterings on both sides of the room to subside.
But Mathys was unwavering, justifying her line of inquiry as “legitimate oversight” into SAPS operations and continuing corruption probes. “We must not water down responsibility just because it annoys the CEO,” she shot back. In an effort to restore order and ensure compliance with parliamentary procedures, committee chair Thandi Maseko felt compelled to step in.
Although Mathys had good points, she was ultimately told that she should “avoid personal insinuations” when she spoke about the minister. Subsequently, Cachalia addressed the committee, restating his ministry’s “complete commitment to transparency and institutional integrity.” He had maintained composure during the exchange.
The event brought to light the increasing animosity between the ANC and EFF benches, which was fuelled by disagreements over police reform and political meddling in the security sector. In what is shaping up to be a highly volatile political climate, parliament is likely to meet again next week to continue discussions on the plan to restructure the South African Police Service (SAPS).