The ANC Parliamentary Caucus has rejected reports that 20 party MPs either abstained or stayed away from voting on the bills that disbanded the Scorpions.

"We wish to place on record that all ANC MPs present in the House cast their votes in favour of the two Bills," the caucus said in a statement on Friday.

"The 20 MPs in question were not present in the House due to unavoidable circumstances, such as poor health, family bereavements or ministerial commitments."

The assembly approved the South African Police Amendment and the NPA Amendment bills on Thursday night.

ANC MPs absent at the time presented apologies that were accepted by the party's chief whip, the caucus said.

In a statement earlier in the day, the ANC called on South Africans to "rally behind" the new proposed SA Police Service directorate that will replace the Scorpions.

"The ANC would like to assure South Africans that the amended bills are the beginning of a long process to out-root [sic] crime and corruption," the party said.

"Having a united police force will ensure proper co-ordination and management to deal with organised crime."

Sapa