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South Africa’s communications minister has appointed an independent panel of experts to review a draft national artificial intelligence policy after the first version was withdrawn. The earlier draft was pulled after it was found to contain fictitious and possibly AI-generated references.
Communications Minister Solly Malatsi briefed a parliamentary committee on Tuesday after the withdrawal. Officials now expect the revised policy to be released for public comment in January 2027, according to the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies.
The original draft, published in April, was meant to position South Africa as a continental leader in AI innovation while also addressing ethical and economic questions. But the process came under fire after internal checks failed to detect the flawed references before the issue was exposed by media reports.
Malatsi said the draft was intended as a starting point for public input and that much of its content had not faced major criticism. He acknowledged, however, a “massive oversight” and said the lack of disclosure around AI use in compiling the references was a serious problem.
The new seven-member panel will review the draft, recommend revisions or removals and replace the flawed citations. The revised policy is expected to go to Cabinet by November 2026 for approval.
Two officials have been placed on precautionary suspension while an investigation continues. Director-General Nonkqubela Jordan-Dyani said the withdrawal was necessary to restore credibility.
