IDAC Chief faces fire at SAPS oversight hearings

Advocate Andrea Johnson, head of the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC), faced intense scrutiny from the South African Police Service (SAPS) Ad Hoc Committee in Parliament, as lawmakers pressed her on delays in high-profile corruption investigations.

Despite leading a specialised unit, Johnson acknowledged significant backlogs and a lack of major convictions, raising questions about IDAC’s effectiveness and capacity.

Committee members highlighted concerns over overlapping mandates, insufficient coordination with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), and the potential for political interference in sensitive cases. Johnson was asked to explain what steps her office is taking to restore public confidence and ensure that whistle‑blowers are protected.

Observers noted that the hearing exposed structural weaknesses within IDAC, including under‑staffing, unclear operational roles, and procedural bottlenecks that have hindered progress. While Johnson pledged to submit a detailed progress report and strengthen inter-agency collaboration, critics warn that the unit’s special status has not yet translated into tangible results.

The hearing underscores growing pressure on South Africa’s anti‑corruption institutions, highlighting the urgent need for reform and effective enforcement. Parliament’s scrutiny signals that failure to act decisively could have far-reaching consequences for public trust and governance in law enforcement.