Madlanga Commission shuts public hearings until November as final report deadline looms

The Madlanga Commission has suspended public hearings for October, but will be privately hearing sensitive evidence and focusing on its final report as it works towards a January 2027 deadline. Public hearings will reconvene on November 9, five days after local government elections on November 4. In the meantime, the commission will hold in-camera proceedings over the next two weeks to hear evidence that cannot be disclosed publicly due to ongoing investigations and its confidential nature.

Commission spokesperson Jeremy Michaels announced that the commission will also host a two-day seminar in October to prepare for drafting the final report.

The temporary shutdown impacts the anticipated testimony of attempted murder accused Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, whose appearance has been delayed to December 14. Advocate Matthew Chaskalson, the evidence leader, stated that Matlala may be called earlier if there are openings in the commission's schedule during criminal trial proceedings, provided there is sufficient notice.

Commission chairperson, retired Deputy Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, criticized the tardy issuance of Matlala's subpoena, arguing that it should not have been sent so close to his scheduled appearance. "I know, Chaskalson, that you are standing in and that it’s not your matter, but it is unacceptable that Matlala was only subpoenaed on the 25th," Madlanga remarked.

Upon the resumption of public hearings, the commission aims to complete Phase Two, which includes testimony from Police Minister Senzo Mchunu. Following that, Phase Three will commence, with Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi expected to return to the witness stand. The commission plans to dedicate December and January to preparing its final report, which must be submitted to President Cyril Ramaphosa by January 25.

The commission has also terminated its hotline and other channels for new submissions; however, information that could aid investigations will still be accepted by commission leaders and investigators.