For a soundbite of the Chairperson of the committee, Mr Makashule Gana, please click here: https://iono.fm/e/1699106
For a video of Mr Gana’s comments, click here: https://tinyurl.com/2kmbs767
Parliament, Wednesday, 22 July 2026 – The Impeachment Committee for Section 89 Enquiry today resolved to extend the deadline for political parties to nominate candidates for appointment as evidence leader.
The committee met on Wednesday to consider the list of nominations for evidence leader, as well as the draft terms of reference that will guide the enquiry.
Committee Chairperson Mr Makashule Gana said parties will have until 18:00 on Friday, 24 July 2026, to submit the names of additional candidates. He said that the committee plans to conclude its consideration of the candidates at its next meeting on Wednesday, 29 July 2026. Thereafter, it will make a recommendation to Parliament regarding the appointment of an evidence leader, as the authority to make the appointment rests with Parliament.
The committee further resolved to also give political parties until 18:00 on Friday to consult one another and work towards achieving broad consensus on the terms of reference. The committee will consider the resulting recommendations at the next meeting of 29 July 2026.
The committee also resolved to request its legal advisers to provide guidance on the legal position regarding President Cyril Ramaphosa's appearance or testimony before the committee. The legal advice must also provide guidance on the implications should the President elect not to testify.
“The committee must ensure that all its decisions and procedures remain consistent with the Constitution and the law,” said Mr Gana. “This question has arisen repeatedly in the committee. It is therefore important that we obtain clear legal advice and ensure that the committee remains on the correct side of the law throughout the enquiry.”
The committee also resolved to invite the authors of the Section 89 Independent Panel report to brief it on the report and its findings regarding the Phala Phala matter. Mr Gana said the committee will write to the members of the panel that was chaired by former Chief Justice Sandile Ngcobo and request that they make themselves available.
Follow the work of the committee here: https://www.parliament.gov.za/impeachment-committee-section-89-enquiry
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE IMPEACHMENT COMMITTEE FOR SECTION 89 ENQUIRY, MR MAKASHULE GANA.
For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact:
Name: Alicestine October (Ms)
Cell: 083 665 4345
E-mail: aoctober@parliament.gov.za
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