Masemola's Testimony Implicates Ramaphosa in Political Killings Task Team Disbandment
National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola has concluded his testimony before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, alleging that President Cyril Ramaphosa was aware of, and potentially agreed with, the decision to disband the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT). Masemola's statements, coupled with those of Gen. Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, have raised serious questions about political interference within the South African Police Service (SAPS) and whether Ramaphosa will be called to testify.
Ramaphosa's Alleged Involvement
According to Masemola's testimony, former Police Minister Senzo Mchunu informed him that President Ramaphosa supported the closure of the PKTT. This revelation came as a surprise to Masemola, who stated that Ramaphosa had previously supported the team and even requested its assistance in investigating corruption and killings at Fort Hare University and attacks on traditional leaders.
Masemola testified that he informed President Ramaphosa about Mchunu's attempts to disband the PKTT, but received no direct response. He said the president appeared "surprised" when briefed on the matter. The Presidency has stated they will respond once all evidence has been presented to the commission.
Reasons for Disbandment and Allegations of Interference
Masemola indicated that Mchunu claimed the decision to disband the PKTT was based on the assertion that there were no politically motivated killings after 1994. However, Masemola opposed the disbandment, citing the task team's effectiveness in handling difficult political murder cases. Mkhwanazi alleged that Mchunu may have sought the disbandment to shield criminal syndicates.
Masemola also revealed that tensions were high during a meeting with Mchunu regarding the PKTT's disbandment, particularly after the unit picked up a new case concerning the murder of an ANC councillor in Mandeni. He testified that Mchunu reacted with anger, and that suspended Deputy National Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya and Mchunu's Chief of Staff, Cedrick Nkabinde, did not want the task team dockets handed to the KZN murder and robbery unit.
Revelations Regarding Vusi "Cat" Matlala
Masemola also testified about claims regarding businessman Vusi “Cat” Matlala. A whistleblower alleged that Matlala was effectively acting as a deputy within SAPS, working closely with Shadrack Sibiya and giving instructions on operations. A raid on Matlala's property in December 2024 resulted in arrests, and he now faces attempted murder charges and has been linked to other crimes.
Commission's Focus and Future Proceedings
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry is investigating allegations of police corruption and political interference. The focus on the attempted dissolution of the PKTT sits at the center of these allegations. Testimony is expected to continue, examining the circumstances surrounding the disbandment and the potential implications for the integrity of SAPS.
Commission Details
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Commission Name | Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System (Madlanga Commission) |
| Chairperson | Retired Constitutional Court Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga |
| Co-Chairs | Judge Thandi Norman and Retired Judge Gregory Kruger |
| Location of Proceedings | Brigitte Mabandla Justice College, Pretoria |
