Commission Probing Mkhwanazi Allegations Moves Forward

The work of the Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System—known as the Madlanga Commission—has officially begun.

Acting Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, who chairs the commission, confirmed this during a media briefing on 28 July 2025. The commission was established by President Cyril Ramaphosa in response to serious allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

Mkhwanazi’s claims point to a criminal syndicate allegedly operating within South Africa’s law enforcement, intelligence services, the judiciary, and the National Prosecuting Authority. He also implicated politicians and the now suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu.

“We can assure South Africans that the work of the commission has commenced in earnest. Our first consultation with a witness is imminent, and it will inform the direction of further inquiries,” said Justice Madlanga.

He acknowledged public interest in the commission’s proceedings and stressed the need to follow correct procedures before public hearings begin. “Just because Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi made the allegations does not mean we can immediately proceed to hear evidence. Information must be assessed, verified and, if necessary, further supported,” he added.

Justice Madlanga indicated that public hearings are expected to begin during August 2025. “We are treating the matter with urgency. The commission hearings will commence as soon as the necessary preparatory steps have been finalised,” he said.

The commission will investigate the South African Police Service, Gauteng metro police, National Prosecuting Authority, State Security Agency, Correctional Services, the judiciary, and any members of the executive responsible for criminal justice.

The primary objective is to investigate whether criminal syndicates have infiltrated these institutions. Madlanga stated that the commission aims to deliver an interim report by the end of its first three-month phase, potentially recommending immediate actions based on the evidence received.

Meanwhile, the commission is finalising the procurement of office space and infrastructure in Gauteng, where hearings will take place. “The lack of physical premises does not impact our preparatory work. We are moving full steam ahead,” Madlanga assured.

The commission’s core team has been appointed and includes:

· Advocate Sesi Baloyi SC and Advocate Sandile Khumalo SC – assisting Madlanga.

· Dr Nolitha Vukuza – Commission Secretary.

· Advocate Terry Motau SC – Chief Evidence Leader.

· Dr Peter Goss – Chief Investigator.

· Jeremy Michaels – Spokesperson.

Evidence leaders include Advocates Matthew Chaskalson SC, Mahlape Sello SC, Adila Hassim SC, Lee Segeels-Ncube, Ofentse Motlhasedi, and Thabang Pooe.

Justice Madlanga concluded that public hearings would be streamed live and open to in-person attendance.