“Kubayi Challenges Motau to Explain Madlanga Commission Exit Amid Budget Dispute”

Kubayi Responds to Motau’s Sudden Exit

Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has called on Advocate Terry Motau to provide clarity regarding his unexpected resignation as chief evidence leader at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. Motau’s departure came amid concerns he cited over the R147 million budget allocated to the Commission by the Department of Justice, claiming it was insufficient to complete the investigation into alleged corruption and infiltration within South Africa’s criminal justice system.

Kubayi insists that the budget was properly communicated and managed, and no formal complaints were raised directly with her department.

Motau’s Budget Concerns

Motau argued that the allocated funds fell short of what was required to properly investigate the high-profile allegations highlighted by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla, which prompted President Cyril Ramaphosa to establish the commission in July 2025.

Sources suggest that Motau felt constrained by financial limits, particularly regarding fees for himself and his junior counsel.

Minister Kubayi’s Office Sets the Record Straight

Kubayi’s spokesperson, Terrence Manase, emphasised that:

• Budgetary matters were communicated clearly to all commission members.

• Advocate Motau participated directly in determining the fee structure for himself and his team.

• The Commission continues to operate from Brigitte Mabandla Justice College, a state-owned facility, at no additional cost to taxpayers.

Manase further urged Motau to publicly clarify his reasons for resigning, stating that the department should not bear undue responsibility for his decision.

“The minister reaffirms her commitment to transparency, accountability, and ensuring that the Commission is adequately resourced to fulfil its important mandate,” Manase said.

Progress at the Madlanga Commission

Despite Motau’s exit, the Commission has continued hearings. Among the testimonies:

• Mkhwanazi, who spent three days detailing his allegations against police and judicial officials.

• National Provincial Commissioner Fannie Masemola, who testified that former directives to disband the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) encroached on the commissioner’s mandate.

The Commission will take a short break from 6 to 10 October 2025, due to Commissioner Sesi Baloyi attending to her duties at the Judicial Service Commission (JSC).

Public Reaction and Implications

Social media and legal analysts have been quick to comment on Motau’s exit. Many see it as a potential blow to the Commission’s credibility, while others emphasise the importance of adequate resourcing in high-profile investigations.

For now, Kubayi remains firm: the Commission will proceed, and she has challenged Motau to provide full transparency on the circumstances behind his resignation, underscoring the importance of public trust in the ongoing inquiry.

{Source: The Citizen}

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