McBride says Phahlane isn’t smeared but is a senior police figure facing multiple criminal trials.
In a recent interview with News24, Robert McBride, the former head of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), has come forward to defend his successor, Khomotso Phahlane, against accusations of being smeared by the media.
McBride, who has had his own share of run-ins with the law, stated that Phahlane is not being targeted by the media but is simply a senior police figure who is facing multiple criminal trials. He also urged the public to wait for the outcome of these trials before making any judgments.
Phahlane, who has been the acting National Police Commissioner since 2015, has been in the spotlight for the past few years due to various allegations of corruption and misconduct. He has been accused of receiving kickbacks, tampering with evidence, and interfering with investigations. These allegations have led to him facing multiple criminal charges and an ongoing investigation by IPID.
However, McBride believes that Phahlane should not be dismissed as a “smear campaign” victim. He stated, “It is not a smear campaign when there are actual charges against you. It’s not a smear campaign when there are actual investigations and evidence against you. It’s not a smear campaign when you are a senior police figure who should be held accountable for your actions.”
McBride’s statement sheds light on the importance of holding senior police officials accountable for their actions. It is a reminder that no one is above the law, regardless of their position or status.
Phahlane has denied all allegations against him and has maintained his innocence throughout the investigations. He has also accused McBride and IPID of conducting a witch-hunt against him. However, McBride has dismissed these claims, stating that IPID has a duty to investigate any allegations of wrongdoing within the police force.
The ongoing trials and investigations against Phahlane have raised concerns about the integrity of the South African Police Service (SAPS). It has also sparked debates about the need for transparency and accountability within the police force.
McBride, who was removed from his position as IPID head in 2019, has also been vocal about the interference and political pressure faced by the organization in its investigations. He has called for the establishment of an independent body to oversee police investigations, stating that it would ensure impartiality and prevent any interference from within the police force.
The South African public has a right to know the truth about the allegations against Phahlane and the ongoing investigations. It is also essential for the SAPS to maintain its integrity and for the public to have faith in the police force.
McBride’s comments serve as a reminder that the media’s role is to bring these issues to light and to hold those in power accountable. It is not a smear campaign, but rather a necessary step in ensuring justice and transparency.
In conclusion, as the trials and investigations against Phahlane continue, it is crucial to remember that he is a senior police figure who is facing multiple criminal charges. It is not a smear campaign but a process of accountability and justice. The public should wait for the outcome of these trials before making any judgments, and the SAPS must work towards maintaining its integrity and transparency. Let us not dismiss these allegations as a smear campaign but rather as a call for accountability and justice within our police force.
