President Cyril Ramaphosa has suspended Inspector-General of Intelligence, Imtiaz Fazel, with immediate effect, pending the outcome of a parliamentary investigation into his conduct.
The Presidency confirmed the suspension in an official statement on Wednesday evening, noting that the Joint Standing Committee on Intelligence (JSCI) had received a complaint against Fazel and would launch an inquiry in line with Section 7(4) of the Intelligence Services Act (Act 40 of 1994).
Under Section 7(5) of the Act, the President has the authority to suspend the Inspector-General while an investigation is underway.
Fazel, appointed to the role in November 2022, has been responsible for monitoring South Africa’s intelligence services to ensure they operate within the bounds of the law and the Constitution. His suspension marks a significant moment for intelligence oversight and raises critical questions about accountability in the country’s security structures.
This development follows President Ramaphosa’s decision to establish a commission of inquiry into alleged corruption within the police, judiciary, and intelligence agencies. The move came after KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi alleged widespread corruption within the South African Police Service and other state institutions.
“The Inspector-General may be suspended by the President pending a decision in such investigation,” the Act states, underscoring the seriousness of the allegations now under review.
While details of the complaint against Fazel remain confidential, the Presidency emphasized that the suspension aligns with government’s commitment to transparency and legislative oversight.
Fazel’s suspension is expected to spark debate across political and civil society sectors, given his crucial watchdog role in a domain long criticized for secrecy and internal power struggles.
The JSCI’s investigation will determine whether Fazel will be reinstated or face further disciplinary action. The Presidency has not yet announced who will serve as acting Inspector-General during the suspension.
Meanwhile, Police Minister Senzo Mchunu is expected to appear before Parliament’s ad hoc committee investigating corruption within law enforcement and intelligence agencies.
