IPHC Leader Michael Sandlana
In a courtroom development that has left supporters disappointed, International Pentecostal Holiness Church leader Michael Sandlana will remain behind bars until at least 6 March 2026, when his formal bail application is set to be heard. The 64-year-old appeared briefly in the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court on Wednesday, 3 December 2025, but his legal team indicated they were not ready to proceed. This postponement adds another layer to the high-profile corruption case involving Sandlana, a Pretoria High Court judge, her son, and a church spokesperson, all accused of trading bribes for favourable rulings in a bitter church leadership dispute.
The case has gripped public attention, blending elements of faith, justice, and alleged misconduct in high places. For Sandlana’s followers, who gathered outside the court in large numbers, the delay means more time in custody for their revered leader, known affectionately as “the Lion.” As investigations continue, many in the church community hope for a swift resolution, while critics see it as a step towards accountability in one of South Africa’s largest religious organisations.
Court Proceedings and Defence’s Position
Sandlana’s appearance was meant to kick off his bail bid, but his advocate, Mike Hellens, told the court they needed more time to gather facts. “We are not going to bring an application for bail today. But once we have all our necessary facts together for the purpose of a bail application, we will try to enrol a bail application for my client, Mr Sandlana. But we are not bringing an application today,” Hellens explained.
The magistrate agreed to the postponement, setting the new date for 6 March 2026. This gives the defence over two months to prepare, but it also extends Sandlana’s time in detention. Outside the courtroom, National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana confirmed the state was fully prepared to oppose bail, highlighting the seriousness of the allegations.
Sandlana has been in custody since his arrest last week, while his co-accused—Judge Portia Phahlane, her son Kagiso, and church spokesperson Vusi Ndala—were granted bail during an earlier hearing. Phahlane received R50,000 bail, with her son and Ndala each on R20,000. The judge has been placed on special leave pending the case’s outcome.
The Charges: Bribery in the IPHC Succession Battle
The four accused face 19 counts of corruption, with the state alleging a scheme to sway court decisions in the ongoing International Pentecostal Holiness Church leadership fight. Between 2021 and 2022, Ndala and Sandlana reportedly paid about R2.4 million on various occasions to accounts benefiting Phahlane. In return, she allegedly presided over Sandlana’s civil case and ruled in his favour.
The IPHC, one of Africa’s largest churches with millions of members, has been locked in a succession dispute since the death of its leader in 2016. Sandlana heads a breakaway faction challenging the main group’s control over vast church assets, including properties and funds worth billions. The bribery claims suggest an attempt to tip the scales in this legal tussle, undermining the judiciary’s integrity.
Phahlane has denied the accusations, pleading not guilty and maintaining her innocence. The case has also drawn scrutiny to her role as a judge, with calls for a full review of her past rulings linked to the church matter.
Supporters Rally Outside Court for Sandlana’s Release
Hundreds of IPHC members picketed outside the Pretoria court, demanding justice and Sandlana’s freedom. They chanted “Re batla Tau,” meaning “We want the Lion,” a nod to his church moniker symbolising strength and leadership. Signs and songs filled the air, showing strong backing for the accused leader.
One church member, Mighty Mabule, spoke to reporters: “We are here to support our father. We want justice to prevail, and we respect the court process.” The peaceful demonstration underscored the deep loyalty Sandlana commands within his faction, despite the serious charges.
This support echoes the church’s divided state, where factions often rally around their leaders amid the succession war. The IPHC’s main branch has distanced itself from Sandlana, focusing on its own operations while the legal battles play out.
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