Public hearings at the Madlanga Judicial Commission, investigating allegations of criminality, corruption, and political interference within the police and criminal justice system, are set to resume on Monday and are expected to be a major news focus.
Interim Report
The commission delivered an interim report to President Cyril Ramaphosa on December 17, just three months after initial hearings began on September 17. A dozen witnesses are anticipated to testify in the coming months as phase two of the inquiry gets underway.
Serious Allegations
Individuals implicated in wrongdoing will have the opportunity to respond to allegations initially made by KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi and subsequently supported by other witnesses last year. The commission will continue to examine the disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT), a topic addressed in December 2025 by Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, with a focus on potential political interference.
New Witnesses
New witnesses are scheduled to begin testimony on Monday at 9:30am. Major-General Lesetja Senona, head of the KwaZulu-Natal Hawks, is set to appear on Tuesday, following an order issued by Commission Chairperson Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga on November 26, 2025. Dozens more witnesses are expected in the coming months, though specific schedules will be released as security considerations allow.
High-Profile Witness
To date, approximately 37 witnesses have testified before the Commission, with nine participating in phase two. An additional 28 individuals have approached the Commission directly. Major-General Senona is considered a high-profile witness, having been implicated in testimony from “Witness X,” who alleged a close relationship between Senona and tender tycoon Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, and Matlala’s son, Thato Senona. Witness X’s testimony included claims that Matlala may have been facilitating a property purchase for Thato, and requested FICA documents from his father.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Madlanga Commission investigating?
The Madlanga Judicial Commission is probing allegations of criminality, corruption, and political interference in the police and criminal justice system.
When was the interim report delivered?
The commission delivered its interim report to President Cyril Ramaphosa on December 17.
Who is expected to testify soon?
New witnesses are scheduled to testify starting Monday, with KwaZulu-Natal Hawks head Major-General Lesetja Senona scheduled to appear on Tuesday.
As the Madlanga Commission continues its work, it remains to be seen what further evidence will emerge and how the findings might reshape the landscape of law enforcement and criminal justice in the region.
