South Africa Suspends Two Officials After Draft AI Policy Cited Fake Sources

*TL;DR Two officials are on precautionary suspension as South Africa pulls a draft AI policy riddled with fabricated references.

Context The Department of Communications and Digital Technologies announced Thursday that a draft National Artificial Intelligence Policy was removed from public consultation. The withdrawal followed the discovery that the document cited sources that do not exist, raising concerns about the use of AI tools in its preparation.

Key Facts - The department placed two unnamed officials on precautionary suspension with immediate effect. The suspensions are described as an initial step in an internal review aimed at establishing the facts and ensuring accountability. - Director‑General Nonkqubela Jordan‑Dyani said the suspensions reflect the department’s commitment to accountability while an internal investigation examines how the policy was compiled. - The draft policy was withdrawn after it emerged that fictitious references had been inserted, a breach the department labeled “irresponsible use of AI tools” that compromised the document’s integrity. - No details on the officials’ identities or seniority were released, and the investigation’s timeline remains unspecified.

What It Means The incident highlights the challenges governments face when integrating AI into policy work. Reliance on generative AI without rigorous verification can produce fabricated citations, undermining credibility. The department’s swift suspension signals a willingness to enforce standards, but the lack of transparency about the officials involved may fuel public skepticism.

The episode also raises broader questions about oversight mechanisms for AI‑assisted drafting in the public sector. As South Africa seeks to position itself as a leader in responsible AI adoption, the outcome of the internal probe will likely shape future guidelines on AI use in government documentation.

Looking Ahead Watch for the department’s final report, which will detail the investigation’s findings and outline corrective measures. The next steps will indicate how South Africa plans to safeguard the integrity of its AI policy framework and restore confidence in its digital governance.