Madlanga Commission seeks closed-door testimony from intelligence coordinator

The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, investigating criminality, political interference, and corruption within the criminal justice system, is requesting closed-door testimony from Acting National Intelligence Coordinating Committee (NICOC) Coordinator Dr Ntandazo Sifolo. This decision stems from the sensitive nature of the evidence he is expected to provide, as outlined in an application submitted by the Commission’s evidence leaders under Rule 4.2 of the Commission Rules.

The application seeks an order directing that Dr Sifolo’s evidence be heard in camera. Originally scheduled to begin testifying on 13 October 2026, Dr Sifolo's appearance has been postponed, with the exact date yet to be determined by the Chairperson. The affidavit supporting the application describes the anticipated evidence as highly sensitive, stating that it relates to classified material which has been declassified for use by the Commission but not for public dissemination.

The Commission argues that the confidential information is so deeply embedded in Dr Sifolo’s evidence that it cannot be separated without disrupting or limiting the evidence. Media organizations have been notified of the application and invited to oppose it, with a deadline for any challenges set for 15 October 2026. If the application is successful, the Chairperson will determine who may attend the proceedings, and transcripts, recordings, and related exhibits from the session will be treated as confidential.

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