Key Takeaways:
- President Cyril Ramaphosa has received the interim report from the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry
- The commission has heard from 37 witnesses so far, with dozens more scheduled to appear in 2026
- The interim report will not be made public, but the final submission will be published
- The commission was established due to allegations of corruption and interference made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi
- The inquiry is divided into two phases, with the first phase focusing on the airing, substantiation, and corroboration of allegations, and the second phase allowing witnesses to reply to allegations and share their side of the story
Introduction to the Commission of Inquiry
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry has been a significant development in the investigation of allegations of corruption and interference in South Africa. Established by President Cyril Ramaphosa, the commission was formed in response to allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. Mkhwanazi’s testimony was the first to be heard by the commission, and it marked the beginning of a thorough investigation into the allegations. The commission has been working tirelessly to gather evidence and hear from various witnesses, and recently, President Ramaphosa received the interim report from the commission.
The Commission’s Progress
The commission has made significant progress in its investigation, having heard from 37 witnesses so far. The inquiry has been divided into two phases, with the first phase focusing on the airing, substantiation, and corroboration of the allegations. During this phase, 28 witnesses testified, providing valuable insights and evidence to support or refute the allegations. The second phase of the inquiry allows witnesses to reply to the allegations levelled against them and to share their side of the story. So far, 9 witnesses have testified in this phase, with dozens more scheduled to appear in 2026. The commission’s spokesperson, Jeremy Michaels, has confirmed that the inquiry is ongoing and that the commission will continue to hear from more witnesses in the new year.
The Interim Report
The interim report submitted to President Ramaphosa marks a significant milestone in the investigation. However, the contents of the report will not be made public at this time. The commission has stated that the final submission will be published, providing transparency and accountability in the investigation. The decision to keep the interim report confidential is likely due to the sensitive nature of the allegations and the need to protect the integrity of the investigation. The publication of the final submission will provide the public with a comprehensive understanding of the commission’s findings and recommendations.
The Significance of the Inquiry
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry is a crucial step towards addressing the allegations of corruption and interference in South Africa. The inquiry demonstrates the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability, and it provides a platform for witnesses to share their experiences and evidence. The commission’s findings and recommendations will be closely watched, as they have the potential to shape the country’s approach to addressing corruption and promoting good governance. The inquiry also highlights the importance of independent institutions in holding those in power accountable and ensuring that the rule of law is upheld.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The receipt of the interim report by President Ramaphosa marks a significant development in the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. The commission’s ongoing investigation and the publication of the final submission will provide valuable insights into the allegations of corruption and interference. As the inquiry continues, it is essential to ensure that the process remains transparent and accountable, and that the findings and recommendations are implemented to promote good governance and accountability in South Africa. The country will be watching closely as the commission completes its work and submits its final report, which will undoubtedly have significant implications for the future of the country.
