Madlanga Commission
South Africa’s Madlanga Commission of Inquiry is gearing up for a pivotal week as it hears from high-profile figures implicated in allegations of corruption, political interference, and criminal ties within the criminal justice system. Former Ekurhuleni City Manager Imogen Mashazi is scheduled to appear on Monday, facing accusations of using her position to shield and advance the career of suspended Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department acting head Julius Mkhwanazi. The commission, established by President Cyril Ramaphosa in July 2025 to investigate serious claims of wrongdoing in law enforcement, will also hear from Mkhwanazi and suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu later in the week.
This surge in testimonies comes as the inquiry wraps up its public hearings for 2025 on Friday, with a three-month interim report due to the president by 17 December. The proceedings have already uncovered shocking details of alleged infiltration by criminal syndicates and political meddling, raising questions about the integrity of key institutions. As the nation watches, these sessions could reveal more about how power and crime intersect, impacting trust in governance. Here’s a detailed look at the upcoming witnesses, the allegations against them, and the broader implications for South Africa’s fight against corruption.
Imogen Mashazi’s Appearance: Accusations of Protection and Influence
Mashazi steps into the spotlight on Monday amid claims she abused her authority to protect Mkhwanazi from misconduct probes. Witnesses have testified that she pressured human resources to reinstate him despite serious allegations, including unlawful deals with suspected underworld figures. One video shown at the commission captured Mkhwanazi vowing loyalty to Mashazi, saying he would “take a bullet” for her during a 2023 event, raising eyebrows about their close ties.
Her testimony is expected to address these links and her role in shielding officials from accountability. As city manager, Mashazi oversaw key decisions, and critics argue her actions enabled a culture of impunity. The inquiry has heard how she allegedly became hostile towards those trying to discipline Mkhwanazi, painting a picture of favouritism that undermined fair processes. This session could clarify if her decisions broke ethical rules or laws, shedding light on how administrative power can shield wrongdoing in local government.
Julius Mkhwanazi: Suspended EMPD Chief Under Scrutiny
Mkhwanazi, now suspended as acting EMPD head, is set to testify this week, facing a barrage of allegations from criminal investigations. An Independent Police Investigative Directorate report found he unlawfully entered into an agreement with alleged underworld figure Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, a move that reportedly handed Matlala endless business opportunities in Ekurhuleni. Witnesses have described his “reign of terror,” including claims he faked deals, requested bodies be dumped from crime scenes, and appointed private security members to police roles.
His suspension on 11 November 2025 followed explosive testimonies at the commission, where evidence showed he fabricated a memorandum of understanding to benefit Matlala. Mkhwanazi has requested more time to prepare, delaying his appearance, but the inquiry presses on. His session could unpack how he allegedly turned the EMPD into a “place of destruction,” with tales of intimidation and collusion that have shocked the public.
Senzo Mchunu: Suspended Minister’s Turn on Tuesday
Suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu takes the stand on Tuesday, under fire for alleged ties to criminal gangs and political interference in police operations. The ANC confirmed his voluntary step-aside plea, allowing him to continue limited party duties while cooperating with the probe. Testimonies have painted him as reacting with anger to suggestions against disbanding the Political Killings Task Team, a move seen by some as exceeding his authority and enabling irregularities.
Mchunu handed over his electronic devices to authorities in November 2025 as part of the investigation, following claims of improper influence. Witnesses like Lieutenant General Hilda Senthumule slammed his “irrational and calculated” directives, arguing he failed to grasp SAPS structures before making sweeping changes. His appearance is crucial, as it could reveal if political motives undermined efforts to combat serious crimes like political assassinations.
The Madlanga Commission: Background and Broader Mandate
Set up by President Ramaphosa in July 2025, the Madlanga Commission – chaired by Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga – probes allegations of criminality, political interference, and corruption in the criminal justice system. It stems from explosive claims by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi in July 2025, who accused syndicates of infiltrating SAPS and justice bodies.
Public hearings, starting after a September 2025 delay, have run at Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre in Pretoria, exposing a “strange web” of collusion between officials and criminals. Over 20 witnesses have testified, revealing links to underworld figures and interference in high-profile cases. The commission’s work parallels a parliamentary Ad Hoc Committee investigating similar claims, with both aiming to restore integrity in policing.
Delays have marked the process, with some hearings pushed to 2026 due to the need for thorough examination. The interim report by 17 December will guide further steps, potentially leading to arrests or reforms.
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