Follow the money — how digital banking records are transforming accountability in SA

The Madlanga Commission has demonstrated how digital banking records can expose corruption and accountability issues in South Africa. Although the commission is investigating criminality and corruption within the criminal justice system, the evidence presented shows that digital records are more effective in revealing inconsistencies and uncovering the truth. Bank records, WhatsApp messages, and public procurement documents together create a powerful accountability system that is difficult to conceal or manipulate.

One example of the power of digital evidence is the case of businessman Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala and North West businessman Brown Mogotsi. WhatsApp messages revealed the payment of R37,000 to a Mahikeng business, while the bank transaction provided a measurable amount, recipient, and date. This allowed the commission to investigate not only the movement of money but also the reasons behind it and the relationships between the individuals involved.

The commission's examination of former SAPS organised-crime head Major-General Richard Shibiri also highlighted the importance of digital records. Shibiri claimed to have received money from Matlala as a loan, but the commission could test this explanation against the banking record. Bank statements revealed that approximately R22,000 was spent on luxury goods shortly after the money was received, casting doubt on Shibiri's repayment explanation.

Public procurement records also play a crucial role in this accountability process. The commission's investigation into the healthcare-services contract awarded by the South African Police Service to Medicare24, a company linked to Matlala, shows how procurement records and financial transactions can be combined to track public funds through private networks.

While the contract remains subject to court processes, the commission's examination of the tender figures and related evidence illustrates how digital records can expose potential misuse of public power.

South Africa must recognize the constitutional significance of this development. Digital banking is often seen as convenient, efficient, and safe, but its less-discussed value is its ability to make the misuse of public power more difficult to conceal. Electronic payments create a permanent trail that investigators can use to identify relationships, follow the movement of public funds, and compare transactions with official documents.

This objective and verifiable evidence can help ensure that accountability and transparency are upheld in South Africa's financial system.