Meet the Legal Powerhouse Investigating SAPS Corruption: Who’s Who in the Madlanga Commission

Inside the Madlanga Commission and the elite team probing explosive SAPS allegations

South Africans are no strangers to commissions of inquiry. From state capture to Life Esidimeni, these high-stakes proceedings often shine a glaring spotlight on the darkest corners of government and public institutions. Now, a new judicial commission is gearing up and it’s taking aim at corruption and political interference within the South African Police Service (SAPS).

At the centre of it all is Acting Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, recently appointed to chair the Judicial Commission of Inquiry triggered by damning allegations from KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

These aren’t just whispers of misconduct. Mkhwanazi’s claims shook the country, hinting at rot so deep it could compromise national policing itself. With hearings expected to begin in August, the nation is watching closely.

So, who’s leading this mammoth task of truth-telling? The answer: a legal dream team with courtroom clout and reputations that command respect.

At the Helm: Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga

A respected figure in South Africa’s judiciary, Justice Madlanga brings gravitas and deep constitutional experience to the inquiry. As a sitting Constitutional Court judge and former evidence leader at the Marikana Commission, he is no stranger to politically sensitive investigations.

His appointment signals that this inquiry won’t just be a rubber-stamp exercise, the intention is to get to the truth.

The Legal Muscle: Advocates Baloyi and Khumalo

Advocate Sesi Baloyi SC and Advocate Sandile Khumalo SC have been tapped as Madlanga’s right hands. Baloyi, a seasoned litigator and former researcher to the late Justice Albie Sachs, has spent nearly three decades shaping constitutional law. Khumalo, a specialist in pensions law, is known for his analytical precision, skills that will be crucial in untangling the financial webs of corruption.

Evidence Speaks: Motau and Goss Bring Firepower

To build a case, you need evidence and two names stand out.

Advocate Terry Motau SC, dubbed a “legal bloodhound,” is best known for exposing the VBS Mutual Bank looting. His forensic report shook the banking sector and led to criminal cases against top executives. Now, he’s the chief evidence leader for the SAPS inquiry.

Backing him is Dr Peter Goss, a corporate governance guru and professor in forensic auditing at the University of Johannesburg. Goss will serve as chief investigator, ensuring no stone is left unturned.

Constitutional Veterans and Public Law Legends Join In

Several of the commission’s evidence leaders are no strangers to high-profile cases.

• Advocate Matthew Chaskalson SC , son of the late Chief Justice Arthur Chaskalson, played a pivotal role in shaping South Africa’s early constitutional framework. His work on the Zondo Commission made him a household name.

• Advocate Mahlape Sello SC sat on the Section 89 panel assessing whether President Ramaphosa had a case to answer in the Phala Phala saga.

• Advocate Adila Hassim SC, co-founder of Section27, represented South Africa in its genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice and was lead counsel in the Life Esidimeni Arbitration.

• Advocates Ofentse Motlhasedi, Thabang Pooe, and Lee Segeels-Ncube round out the diverse and accomplished team. Each brings expertise in constitutional, administrative, and human rights law.

Commission Backbone: Dr Nolitha Vukuza and Jeremy Michaels

On the administrative side, Dr Nolitha Vukuza, former senior executive at UJ, will serve as Commission Secretary. With deep experience in managing complex institutions, she’ll keep the commission running smoothly.

For public communication, seasoned media strategist Jeremy Michaels will act as spokesperson, a crucial role given the intense public interest in this case.

Public Reaction: High Hopes and Heavy Skepticism

Reaction to the commission’s formation has been mixed. Some South Africans are hopeful, especially given the calibre of the team. Others are wary of another long-winded commission with no consequences.

“We’ve seen this movie before, State Capture, Life Esidimeni, Marikana. We need real accountability, not just talk,” said one user on X (formerly Twitter).

However, the presence of legal heavyweights like Chaskalson, Hassim, and Motau has given many observers a reason to watch with cautious optimism.

Why This Commission Matters

The SAPS isn’t just another government department. It’s the last line of defence between civil society and lawlessness. If the allegations raised by Lt-Gen Mkhwanazi are true, they point to a deep and dangerous compromise of that line.

The Madlanga Commission may very well determine whether public trust in policing can be salvaged or whether it’s too late.

As the inquiry unfolds in the coming weeks, South Africans will be looking not just for courtroom drama, but for justice, accountability, and perhaps even reform.

For once, the legal system might not only uncover what went wrong, but show us how to fix it.

{Source: IOL}

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