The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry resumed its cross-examination of taxi boss Joe Sibanyoni on Wednesday, focusing on his meeting with President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2024. Sibanyoni, also known as "Ferrari," is a prominent figure in the Mpumalanga taxi industry. The commission presented a photograph and video of Sibanyoni with Ramaphosa and Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe, sparking questions about the nature of their relationship.
According to the footage, Sibanyoni discussed a local stake in the operations of bus company Putco with Ramaphosa. He requested assistance in acquiring a subcontract for two entities, although he declined to identify the second business. Sibanyoni denied telling the president he would interfere in Putco's business operations, but his words suggested otherwise. He stated that engaging with someone was equivalent to interfering in their matters.
The commission revealed that hundreds of incidents occurred where buses under Putco were stopped by taxi drivers in Mpumalanga. Evidence leader Matthew Chaskalson presented a video showing taxi drivers blocking a Putco bus in the province. Chaskalson informed Sibanyoni that between October 2024 and January 2025, there were over 350 incidents of this nature, forcing Putco buses to turn around.
Sibanyoni denied that his association was behind the incidents, which evidence leaders are set to contend as hearings continue. The commission is investigating allegations of organised crime links and extortion involving Sibanyoni and his associates. The taxi boss has previously been grilled over payment of legal fees for a convicted hitman and alleged involvement in extortion.
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry is tasked with uncovering the truth behind organised crime and corruption in South Africa. The commission's hearings have revealed a complex web of relationships between prominent figures, politicians, and business leaders. Sibanyoni's testimony has shed light on the inner workings of the taxi industry and its alleged connections to high-ranking officials.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has been implicated in the controversy surrounding Sibanyoni's meeting. The president's office has not commented on the matter, but Ramaphosa has previously stated that he is committed to fighting corruption and organised crime. The commission's findings are expected to have far-reaching implications for the South African government and its efforts to combat crime.
The Madlanga Commission's investigation into Sibanyoni's activities is ongoing, with further testimony and evidence expected to be presented. The commission's work aims to bring transparency and accountability to the taxi industry and beyond. Key points include:
Key points
- The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry has heard details of taxi boss Joe Sibanyoni's meeting with President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2024.
- Sibanyoni denied telling the president he would interfere in Putco's business operations, despite footage suggesting otherwise.
- The commission revealed over 350 incidents of taxi drivers blocking Putco buses in Mpumalanga between October 2024 and January 2025.
