Cyril defends R147.8m inquiry costs

PRESIDENT Cyril Ramaphosa said the R147.8 million to be spent on the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry is necessary to uphold the integrity and credibility of the police and other law enforcement agencies.

- MAYIBONGWE MAQHINA

Responding to parliamentary questions from EFF MP Lorato Tito, Ramaphosa said the allegations that led to the establishment of the commission of inquiry raised serious concerns around the constitution, the rule of law and national security.

"They therefore require an urgent, independent and comprehensive investigation. The expense associated with the Commission is necessary to safeguard the integrity and credibility of the police and other law enforcement agencies," he said.

It was reported recently that out of the R147.8m allocated for the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, R64m will be spent on the commissioners, evidence leaders and legal researchers, R4.9m on support staff and R78 890 on operational logistics.

However, Tito said there was increasing public concern regarding the escalating costs of commissions of inquiry, many of which have led to recommendations that were not implemented.