Mapaballo Borotho
- The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry resumes in Pretoria today, with new witnesses expected to testify on alleged political interference in the criminal justice system.
- The hearings follow explosive claims by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi and testimony linked to the disbanding of the political killings task team.
- Dozens more witnesses are expected in the coming months, with the final report to be made public once proceedings conclude.
All eyes are on Pretoria this morning as a new witness is expected to take the stand at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
Established by President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2025, the inquiry is probing allegations of criminal and political interference in the criminal justice system, following explosive allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who accused politicians and senior police officials of colluding with criminal networks.
The inquiry is set to continue with its second phase of testimonies, where some witnesses, including the suspended EMPD chief, Julius Mkhwanazi, are expected to return to the hot seat.
Proceedings resume after the commission submitted its interim report to President Cyril Ramaphosa during the December recess.
The public did not have access to the interim report, as it is interim in nature, with the commission still expected to hear additional evidence.
He added that some witnesses who have already testified are likely to be recalled before the commission concludes its work. However, the public will have access to the final report of the commission.
Two witnesses will continue with their testimonies relating to the decision by embattled Police Minister, currently on special leave, Senzo Mchunu, to disband the political killings task team.
“Following the testimony of Police Minister Senzo Mchunu last December regarding his decision to disband the Political Killings Task Team, the commission’s hearing on Monday will continue with that theme and evidence related to political interference.
“Two new witnesses are also expected to take the stand today,” said the Commission’s spokesperson, Jeremy Michaels.
The KwaZulu-Natal Hawks head, Lesetja Senona, is set to appear before the commission tomorrow.
In December, his legal team requested more time to prepare his testimony.
Michaels says dozens of witnesses are due to appear before the commission in the coming months.
“Due to security concerns, details of the commission’s programme will be announced as and when necessary.”
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