Panel to tackle claims of malfeasance, graft, uneathical conduct inside SSA

MINISTER in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni yesterday said a panel of independent counsel has begun its work to assess the allegations of malfeasance, corruption and unethical conduct in the State Security Agency (SSA).

- MAYIBONGWE MAQHINA

The High Level Review Panel, the Zondo Commission and internal investigation reports detailed weaknesses and challenges within the SSA and the intelligence community.

Speaking during the budget vote the SSA in the National Assembly, Ntshavheni said they remained focused on implementing the recommendations, tracking the progress and reporting same to the National Security Council and the Joint Community Committee on Intelligence (JSCI).

“A panel of two independent senior counsels and a counsel has commenced their work to assess the allegations made in various reports with a view to initiate disciplinary actions or recommend referral of cases for prosecutorial action by the relevant authorities.

“This initiative forms part of our broader effort to strengthen consequence management within the agency, reinforce external accountability and restore integrity to the civilian intelligence services,” she said.

She announced that she was to release the national security strategy 2024 to 2029 and the national intelligence estimates for the period from 2019 to 2024.