Former SAPS Major-General Feroz Khan was expected to testify before the Madlanga Commission on Monday, but he failed to appear, sending his lawyers instead. This is not the first time Khan has missed a scheduled appearance, with his lawyers previously citing a "medical impediment" for his absence. The commission had ruled that Khan could be excused only if an independent medical specialist confirmed that he was unable to testify.
Khan's legal team arrived at the commission, where his appearance had been scheduled after Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga postponed his evidence from September 1 to 28. The dispute over his health intensified after Khan's lawyers previously declined to disclose details of his medical condition. The commission subsequently heard evidence concerning conflicting medical certificates, with his treating doctor stating that a certificate had been altered at the request of Khan's son.
The medical saga follows a violent shooting that nearly derailed his first scheduled appearance. Khan was shot outside his Houghton home on June 28, days before he was due to testify, and was rushed to Milpark Hospital. He suffered severe abdominal injuries, internal bleeding, spinal damage, and kidney complications and underwent emergency surgery at Milpark Hospital.
The commission has already heard serious allegations involving Khan in his absence, including claims relating to procurement, alleged abuse of authority, and his interactions with other figures under scrutiny. Khan has not yet answered those allegations before the commission. The commission's efforts to establish whether his absence is medically justified have become central to the inquiry.
Meanwhile, on Friday, the commission's evidence leaders launched a bid to keep their key WhatsApp communications out of the public eye. This move is likely to raise concerns about transparency and accountability in the investigation. The Madlanga Commission is tasked with investigating allegations of corruption and misconduct within the South African Police Service.
Khan's absence has significant implications for the investigation, as he is a key figure in the allegations being investigated. His failure to appear before the commission has raised questions about his health and whether he is genuinely unable to testify. The commission will likely continue to scrutinize Khan's medical evidence and may take further action if he continues to fail to appear.
The Madlanga Commission's inquiry into allegations of corruption and misconduct within the SAPS is ongoing, with several high-profile figures having already testified. The commission's findings are expected to have significant implications for the SAPS and the broader South African law enforcement community. Khan's eventual testimony is still expected to be heard by the commission.
Key points
- Former SAPS Major-General Feroz Khan failed to appear before the Madlanga Commission, citing medical reasons, and sent lawyers in his place.
- The commission is investigating allegations of corruption and misconduct within the SAPS, including claims relating to procurement and alleged abuse of authority involving Khan.
- Khan's absence has significant implications for the investigation, as he is a key figure in the allegations being investigated.
