Madlanga Commission Adjourns After Key Witness Falls Ill; Resumes October 13
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, probing alleged corruption and political interference within South Africa's criminal justice system, has adjourned its proceedings after Crime Intelligence boss Lieutenant General Dumisani Khumalo fell ill. The commission will resume its public hearings on October 13, 2025, following a scheduled break.
Khumalo's Illness Leads to Adjournment
The commission proceedings were abruptly suspended on Wednesday morning after Lieutenant General Dumisani Khumalo, a key witness providing crucial testimony, reported feeling unwell. Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, the commission's chairperson, made the decision to adjourn for the day, prioritizing Khumalo's health and well-being. This marks the second consecutive day of disruptions, following a brief pause on Tuesday when Khumalo also reported feeling unwell but continued briefly. Khumalo was set to continue his testimony, having started on Monday, on allegations of corruption and infiltration in the Criminal Justice System.
Assurances on Khumalo's Health and Well-being
National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola has reassured the public that Lieutenant General Dumisani Khumalo is receiving the best possible medical care. Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, National police spokesperson, said that Khumalo is in good spirits and following the health advice of his physician. Mathe confirmed that the Madlanga Commission will be kept informed of all developments regarding his condition and availability to resume his testimony.
Focus of the Madlanga Commission Inquiry
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry is investigating allegations of criminality, political interference, and corruption within South Africa's criminal justice system. Khumalo's testimony focused on alleged connections between political figures and criminal syndicates, including scrutiny of WhatsApp messages between tender tycoon Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala and Brown Mogotsi, an associate of suspended police minister Senzo Mchunu. The commission is probing the decision to disestablish the political killings task team and the manner in which that decision was sought to be implemented by certain elements within SAPS and the ministry of police. The commission is also looking into the alleged political interference by the late former South African ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa during his tenure as police minister.
Scheduled Break and Resumption of Hearings
The Madlanga Commission will take a scheduled break from October 6 to 10, 2025, due to the unavailability of Commissioner Sesi Baloyi, who will be attending to her duties as a member of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC). Public hearings are scheduled to resume on October 13, 2025. Jeremy Michaels, the commission's spokesperson, emphasized that the adjournment was strictly due to Khumalo's health and not related to security or procedural concerns.
