Kubayi
Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has hit back at former Madlanga Commission evidence leader Advocate Terry Motau, saying he should explain his real reasons for quitting instead of pointing fingers at the department over budget problems. In a statement on Thursday, she made it clear that the commission’s R147.9 million funding for the 2025/26 year is being handled well, with no official complaints about shortages ever raised. Motau stepped down just weeks into the probe, claiming the money was not enough for the big task ahead, but Kubayi notes he helped set the pay rates for himself and his team.
This back-and-forth comes as the commission, set up to look into claims of crime syndicates sneaking into Gauteng’s justice system, faces early bumps. With hearings paused until mid-October due to a key witness falling ill, worries are growing about delays and how solid the inquiry is. Motau’s exit after only two weeks has sparked talk of more walkouts, but the department says things are on track with a new leader in place. This article digs into the row, what both sides say, and what it means for the commission’s work.
Minister Kubayi’s Response to Motau’s Claims
Minister Kubayi put out a strong statement on 2 October 2025, saying the department has noted Motau’s talk about budget fears leading to his resignation. She stressed that money matters for the commission have been dealt with openly and properly, and no formal gripes about shortfalls came her way.
The budget breakdown shows R10.898 million for staff pay, R100.744 million for goods and services—including R58.730 million for communication and ICT, R11.157 million for consultants like investigators, R19.918 million for legal help, and R2.678 million for travel. Another R36.258 million goes to capital buys like secure tech gear. The commission runs from a state-owned spot, the Brigitte Mabandla Justice College, so no extra rent costs hit the books.
Kubayi pointed out that Motau was part of setting fees for himself and his junior counsel, making his budget moans seem off. She called on him to clear up why he really left, rather than putting blame on her team. This push for straight talk aims to keep trust in the commission high as it tackles tough claims of corruption and meddling in justice.
Motau’s Reasons for Stepping Down
Advocate Terry Motau broke his quiet on 2 October 2025 in a radio chat, saying budget worries and admin snags pushed him to quit. He called the R147 million from the justice department “not a lot of money for a task such as this one,” fearing it could hobble the probe’s work.
Motau said he flagged these issues to commission chair Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga on 11 September 2025, before hearings started. He had been asked to think again but held firm. While some guessed a pay cut played a part, Motau played down money as the only driver, focusing on bigger setup problems.
He still backs the team left behind, saying he trusts them to uncover the truth. “It’s not about what is said, it’s about what can be proven. It’s very early days,” he noted. Motau, known for his sharp VBS Bank report “The Great Bank Heist,” lasted less than two weeks before bowing out.
The Madlanga Commission’s Early Challenges
The commission kicked off hearings in Pretoria on 17 September 2025, later than planned. Early witnesses included top cops like National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola. But a key voice, Crime Intelligence boss Lieutenant-General Dumisani Khumalo, fell ill, putting things on hold until 13 October 2025.
Motau’s quick exit has raised eyebrows about the probe’s strength and freedom. Analysts fear it could slow things and shake trust, especially with big claims against politicians and police. One expert warned such early hitches might lead to more quits, calling for quick fixes to keep momentum.
The presidency stays cool, saying it is too soon to judge on fresh claims. With a six-month deadline, the team needs to push through bumps to deliver a full report on how syndicates might have wormed into justice systems.
New Leadership and Way Forward
Advocate Matthew Chaskalson SC has stepped in as the new chief evidence leader. A pro with know-how from big probes like Marikana and Zondo on state capture, he brings skills to handle tricky corruption cases. The commission says it will not let talk of splits derail its work, with spokesperson Jeremy Michaels keeping focus on the task.
Kubayi reaffirmed her promise to keep the commission well-funded and backed, saying transparency and accountability are key. She sees the probe as vital to clean up justice systems and rebuild public faith.
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