McBride to challenge Ipid legislation

Lawyers representing the head of Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) Robert McBride are challenging the constitutionality of legislation that gave Police Minister Nathi Nhleko the right to suspend him, says an SABC News report. McBride has been placed on suspension following his alleged involvement in the matter of the rendition of Zimbabweans. Lawyer Jac Marais says they want the courts to compel Parliament to review the Ipid legislation. ‘What we are saying on behalf of Mr McBride is that there should be very specific processes that must be followed when the Minister wants to remove, investigate or suspend … the head of Ipid.’ Noting legislation regulating the Hawks had been brought into line with the Constitution after legal action, he added: ‘What we are proposing is that the same position should apply in relation to the head of Ipid.’