Phiyega’s entire performance needs to be reviewed‚ says DA

President Jacob Zuma’s refusal to widen the terms of reference of the inquiry into suspended National Police Commissioner Riah Phiyega’s fitness for office is a slap in the face for the millions of South Africans who want real accountability for her dismal performance‚ the Democratic Alliance says.

It said on Sunday the terms of reference should be widened to include allegations that she was is still interfering in the operational management of the police service despite being suspended.

DA spokesperson on police matters Zakhele Mbhele said the fact that the terms of reference were not being widened meant that the inquiry into Phiyega was based solely on the recommendations of the Farlam Commission into the Marikana massacre.

“But the fact is that there are a wide range of issues that necessitates widening the inquiry’s terms of reference‚” Mbhele said.

He said the DA had twice requested the president to widen the terms of reference on rational and substantive grounds.

“The most recent premise is the damning findings of the Ministerial Reference Group (MRG)‚ established by Police Minister‚ Nathi Nhleko‚ in October 2014. It found Phiyega guilty of perjury‚ misconduct‚ fraud and misleading Parliament.

“Riah Phiyega’s failings go far beyond the tragedy of Marikana. She has directly contributed to the decline of the SAPS and compromised its ability to ensure that ordinary South Africans are safe and secure in their homes‚ workplaces and on the streets‚” Mbhele asserted.

“President Zuma continues to disregard the safety needs of ordinary citizens by not dealing decisively and comprehensively with the leadership failure in the police service that is Riah Phiyega. Clearly their plea for a police service that is efficient and led by experienced and ethical senior management is another addition to the list of #ThingsZumaLaughsAt‚” he added.