Mkhwanazi to Testify First at Madlanga Commission

KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, will be the first witness to appear before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry when proceedings begin in Pretoria on 17 September 2025.

The Commission, chaired by retired Constitutional Court Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, was appointed by President Cyril Ramaphosa to investigate Mkhwanazi’s allegations that criminal syndicates have infiltrated South Africa’s law-enforcement agencies, including the police and crime intelligence structures.

Originally due to start earlier this month, the hearings were postponed to allow time for the installation and testing of essential information and communications systems such as livestreaming, transcription services and cybersecurity measures. Commission spokesperson Jeremy Michaels confirmed that these systems are now fully operational and staff have been trained to manage them.

Mkhwanazi’s testimony has been secured following consultations, and he will testify under witness protection. Michaels said that protecting witnesses is central to the Commission’s work, and that some may give evidence behind closed doors depending on security considerations.

The Commission has also been working with government departments to declassify sensitive state-security documents relevant to the investigation. Advocate Matthew Chaskalson, who is leading the evidence, noted that cooperation has so far been positive and that any unresolved issues could be referred directly to the President.

Members of the public are being encouraged to contribute to the process through a confidential hotline, 0800 111 369, or via email to [email protected]. All tips will be received anonymously and handled securely.

Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee on Police and Justice has already highlighted the significance of Mkhwanazi’s testimony, saying it could have far-reaching consequences for the South African Police Service and the wider criminal-justice system. The findings of the Commission may shape future efforts to combat organised crime and restore public trust in policing.