Minister Malatsi faces backlash over fake research in SA’s AI policy

Malatsi
Pretoria – Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Solly Malatsi has ordered an investigation into possible wrongdoing in the drafting of South Africa’s proposed artificial intelligence policy after credibility concerns were raised.

The probe follows a report by News24, which revealed that some references cited in the draft policy were either fabricated or could not be verified.

The department acknowledged discrepancies and said it was reviewing the references, although it initially maintained that these did not affect the policy’s substance.

“Following revelations that the Draft National Artificial Intelligence Policy published for public comment contains various fictitious sources in its reference list, we initiated internal questions which have now confirmed that this was the case,” Malatsi said.

He added: “This failure is not a mere technical issue but has compromised the integrity and credibility of the draft policy. As such, I am withdrawing the Draft National Artificial intelligence Policy. South Africans deserve better.

“The Department of Communications and Digital Technologies did not deliver on the standard that is acceptable for an institution entrusted with the role to lead South Africa ‘s digital policy environment. The most plausible explanation is that AI-generated citations were included without proper verification. This should not have happened.”

The draft policy, published for public comment earlier in April, proposes the creation of new regulatory bodies, including an AI Ethics Board and an AI Safety Institute.

However, the controversy prompted calls from Parliament’s communications committee chairperson Khusela Diko for the policy to be withdrawn, citing concerns over its integrity.

“Dear Minister

“With the integrity of the draft AI policy seriously called into question, here’s an alternative to counter-productive grandstanding.

“Withdraw it immediately so you don’t face further embarrassment and lose more credibility,” Diko posted on X.

Article written by