- Official Criticism of Administrative Failures: Parliamentary committee chair Xola Nqola condemned the public service failures, emphasizing that these shortcomings reflect poorly on government accountability and competence.
- Delay in Start of Corruption Inquiry: The Judicial Commission into corruption in South Africa’s justice system will not commence on 1 September 2025 as planned, raising concerns in Parliament about internal issues and administrative failures.
- Government’s Response to Delay: Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi announced the suspension of senior officials due to administrative failures that hampered preparations, highlighting internal dysfunction within the Department of Justice.
The Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Corruption, Political Interference and Criminality in South Africa’s justice system will not begin as scheduled on 1 September 2025, sparking a wave of concern in Parliament.
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development, Mr Xola Nqola, expressed strong disapproval following confirmation that the commission, led by Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, is not ready to proceed.
Nqola said the delay reflects “a failure by public servants to do their jobs,” and warned that public trust in the justice system is at stake.
“This commission is of utmost importance to restore credibility for the country,” he said. “We call on the Minister to closely monitor progress to ensure the work commences speedily.”
His remarks came after Minister of Justice Mmamoloko Kubayi held a media briefing, where she revealed that administrative failures within her department had stalled preparations.
She confirmed the immediate suspension of Director-General Advocate Doc Mashabane and Deputy-Director-General for ICT Mr Jabu Hlatshwayo. Both face internal investigations and disciplinary action for failing to ensure the necessary systems and infrastructure were in place.
“It is regrettable that these public servants have not done their work to ensure this process starts on time,” said Nqola.
Justice Madlanga’s commission is viewed as a pivotal move to address deep-rooted corruption and rebuild institutional trust. The delay has therefore raised concerns about internal dysfunction within the Department of Justice and its ability to support high-stakes accountability efforts.
