SA’s Draft AI Policy withdrawn as fictitious references exposed

Communications and Digital Technologies Minister, Solly Malatsi.

Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, has withdrawn the country’s Draft National Artificial Intelligence Policy after it was found to contain “various fictitious sources in its reference list.”

In a statement released on Sunday, the department confirms the irregularities following an internal review.

Statement on the integrity of the Draft National Artificial Intelligence Policy

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…

— SollyMalatsi (@SollyMalatsi) April 26, 2026

“The most plausible explanation is that AI-generated citations were included without proper verification. This should not have happened.”

The Minsiter says the failure is not a mere technical issue but has compromised the integrity and credibility of the draft policy.

“In fact, this unacceptable lapse proves why vigilant human oversight over the use of artificial intelligence is critical. It’s a lesson we take with humility. I want to reassure the country that we are treating this matter with the gravity it deserves. There will be consequence management for those responsible for drafting and quality assurance.”