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The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry entered its fifth day on 23 September 2025, with National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola giving critical testimony. The inquiry, launched by President Cyril Ramaphosa in July, is probing claims of widespread corruption and interference involving senior officials, prosecutors, and intelligence officers.
What Happened
The Judicial Commission into Criminality, Political Interference, and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System, known publicly as the Madlanga Commission, resumed its hearings on Monday. The inquiry is chaired by Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga and was established in response to explosive allegations made by Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, KwaZulu-Natal’s Police Commissioner.
Mkhwanazi claimed that syndicates operating within and outside of state structures were being shielded by political and judicial figures. He specifically mentioned interference in investigations by senior police leaders and the manipulation of prosecutorial decisions.
General Masemola’s Day 5 testimony sought to address parts of these allegations, particularly regarding the extent of knowledge or complicity at the highest levels of police leadership.
Official Response
President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed the commission in July 2025 to restore trust in the criminal justice system. In his initial statement, he said the allegations, if true, “threaten the very foundation of constitutional governance and the rule of law.”
Legal experts observing the hearings have voiced concern over the scope of the commission’s mandate, suggesting it may be too broad or open-ended. Some fear that its reach into judicial and executive areas could create political friction, especially if the findings implicate high-level officials.
Community Impact
The outcome of the Madlanga Commission could have far-reaching effects on public trust in policing, prosecutions, and government oversight. Civil society groups and legal watchdogs are closely monitoring the proceedings.
Many South Africans are hopeful that the commission won’t follow the path of previous inquiries that, while exposing serious wrongdoing, failed to bring about significant structural reforms or accountability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the Madlanga Commission?
It’s a judicial inquiry established in July 2025 to investigate criminal networks, political interference, and corruption within South Africa’s criminal justice system.
- Who is testifying at the commission?
Witnesses include high-ranking officials like General Fannie Masemola and Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, among others.
- What are the allegations?
That police and judicial officials have interfered in investigations to protect organised crime networks.
- Who leads the commission?
Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, a sitting Constitutional Court judge.
- What could be the outcome?
The commission may recommend prosecutions or institutional reforms, but its findings are not legally binding unless acted upon by the President and Parliament
