Fazel’s nomination gets the nod

PUBLIC Works and Infrastructure Department deputy director-general Imtiaz Ahmed Fazel is set to become the next inspector-general of intelligence (IGI) after the National Assembly approved his nomination.

If appointed by President Cyril Ramaphosa, Fazel will take over from Setlhomamaru Isaac Dintwe, who left the position in March.

Fazel’s nomination secured the required two-thirds majority when votes from the ANC and opposition parties totalled 334.

This was after the nomination of Reverend Frank Chikane garnered only 232 votes when it was brought up to the House in June and therefore a new nomination had to be put forward.

Speaking during the debate, EFF MP Mbuyiseni Ndlozi said his party would not oppose the nomination of Fazel.

“We want stability in that office and we want a progressive move forward. We want to impress upon the upcoming IGI, hopefully the House will agree, that the immediate task that is going to be bestowed upon them, which calls them into action immediately, is to look into the abuse of intelligence services within Crime Intelligence and the State Security Agency in executing protection in Phala Phala of President Cyril Ramaphosa,” Ndlozi said, before calling on other parties to support Fazel’s nomination.

The IFP’s Russel Cebekhulu said it was necessary to have an IGI who was bound to the Constitution and the Intelligence Services Oversight Act.

“It is our belief that Mr Imtiaz Fazel has both the reputation and experience to fulfil this role with competence. There is no doubt that the task is not for the faint-hearted person,” Cebekhulu said.

The ACDP’s Wayne Thring said he had found Fazel to be an astute, knowledgeable and competent individual in the Public Works Department.

The NFP’s Munzoor Shaik Emam said his party was satisfied Fazel had the necessary qualifications and skills. “His past performance speaks volumes of his ability to be able to perform his duty without fear and favour.”

ANC MP Masefako Clarah Dikgale said Fazel brought with him experience and skills acquired throughout years of service to the people.

Dikgale noted that Fazel served as consultant to the intelligence ministry and acting COO and had a Masters degree from the University of Pretoria.