Expelled SAPS major-general Feroz Khan is set to testify at the Madlanga Commission on September 28. Khan's appearance comes after he was re-admitted to the hospital earlier this month, shortly before his scheduled testimony. The Madlanga Commission has been investigating allegations of corruption and misconduct within the South African Police Service (SAPS). Khan's testimony is highly anticipated as he is expected to respond to evidence already presented during the inquiry.
Evidence leaders have launched a bid to keep Khan's key WhatsApp communications out of the public eye. They have applied for permission to introduce certain WhatsApp communications involving Khan, together with related documents, in an in-camera hearing. This means that the public and media would be excluded from that portion of the proceedings. Khan's lawyers would remain in the room and would be allowed to brief their client on what was discussed.
The application to hold the WhatsApp evidence hearing in private was submitted by the evidence leaders, who argued that certain evidence relating to Khan should be led in camera. The evidence leaders will seek a ruling from the Chairperson to hold the private hearing in the presence of Khan's legal representatives. This would allow Khan's lawyers to disclose information to a third party where necessary to obtain legal instructions.
The Madlanga Commission has heard evidence concerning Khan's alleged financial dealings, property interests, vehicles, and communications with individuals who have featured in the inquiry. WhatsApp messages allegedly involving Khan have also formed part of the evidence presented to the commission. These messages have been linked to allegations of political interference and dealings involving senior intelligence figures.
Khan has not yet had the opportunity to answer the evidence from the witness stand. His testimony is expected to shed more light on the allegations against him. The Labour Court previously refused to stop disciplinary proceedings against Khan, finding that the application was not urgent and that he had an alternative remedy.
The application to hold the WhatsApp evidence hearing in private is not a decision by the commission to keep Khan's evidence secret. The chairperson still needs to consider the request. The media has been given 72 hours to object to the proposed closed-door proceedings. If granted, transcripts, recordings, and documents from the closed proceedings would be kept confidential.
Khan's appearance at the Madlanga Commission marks a significant development in the investigation into allegations of corruption and misconduct within SAPS. The commission's hearings have been closely watched, with many awaiting Khan's testimony. The outcome of the commission's investigation is expected to have far-reaching implications for SAPS and those involved.
Key points
- Feroz Khan to testify at Madlanga Commission on September 28
- Evidence leaders apply to hear WhatsApp evidence in private
- Commission's investigation into SAPS corruption and misconduct continues
