The Madlanga commission of inquiry, investigating criminality, political interference, and corruption in South Africa's criminal justice system, will resume public hearings on November 9. The commission had to pause its hearings due to the upcoming local government elections on November 4. Commission spokesperson Jeremy Michaels cited practical challenges around media coverage and livestreaming during the election period as the reason for the pause.
The commission will not sit on Friday and will hold in-camera hearings over the next two weeks. Starting in the week of October 5, 2026, the commission will hear evidence that is not suitable for public airing due to ongoing investigations or confidential material. This move aims to ensure sensitive information is handled properly.
A two-day seminar will be held in October to prepare for the drafting of the commission's final report. This seminar is a crucial step in the commission's work, as it will help shape the report's findings and recommendations. The commission's work is being closely watched, given its focus on critical issues within the criminal justice system.
The commission will resume its public hearings on November 9, having considered the practicalities related to the local government elections. Media coverage and livestreaming of the commission's hearings will be challenging in the run-up to and immediately after the elections. The commission's decision to pause its hearings demonstrates its awareness of the complexities surrounding the elections.
In the remaining months of 2026, the commission will focus on wrapping up its work related to phase 2 of the inquiry. This includes the testimony of suspended police minister Senzo Mchunu. The commission will also prepare for phase three, which will see KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi return to the witness stand.
The commission will focus on its final report throughout December 2026 and January 2027. The report is due to be submitted to President Cyril Ramaphosa on January 25, 2027. This timeline highlights the commission's commitment to completing its work within a specific timeframe.
The commission will not accept new submissions via its hotline and other platforms but will continue to accept information that can assist in matters already under investigation. This decision ensures that the commission can effectively manage its workload and prioritize existing cases.
Key points
- The Madlanga commission will resume public hearings on November 9.
- The commission will focus on its final report in December 2026 and January 2027.
- The report is due to be submitted to President Cyril Ramaphosa on January 25, 2027.
