Justice Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, defended the R140 million price tag for the Madlanga Commission.
She insisted that the cost should not worry the public.
She further emphasised that her department, with backing from the National Treasury, is fully prepared to cover the inquiry’s cost.
MADLANGA COMMISSION COST JUSTIFIED CONSIDERING THE RISK INVOLVED
In an interview with eNCA, Kubayi urged South Africans to support the R140 million Madlanga Commission cost.
“South Africans need to be sensitive as this is a risky job,” Kubayi said.
She emphasised the serious threats faced by those testifying against powerful criminal syndicates.
Kubayi noted that the department had considered cost-cutting measures, such as using a government building for the proceedings.
However, she did not disclose the specific budget allocated to what is arguably the commission’s most critical element: witness and staff security.
MKHWANAZI TO TESTIFY AS MADLANGA COMMISSION PROBES POLICE CORRUPTION
The commission will officially begin on 17 September 2025, with KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi as its first witness.
President Cyril Ramaphosa established the inquiry after Mkhwanazi exposed alleged deep-rooted criminality, political interference, and corruption within the South African Police Service.
POLITICAL FALLOUT AND PARLIAMENTARY SCRUTINY
Mkhwanazi’s allegations have already shaken the country’s leadership.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has placed Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on special leave and suspended Deputy National Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya.
Additionally, Parliament has also established an ad hoc committee to examine the claims, adopting its terms of reference on 22 August 2025.
However, the Madlanga Commission itself has not been without hurdles.
The commission has had two postponements, leading to the suspension of two senior officials.
This included the Department of Justice Director-General, Doc Mashabane.
A COMMISSION UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT
Between its high-profile suspensions, political pressure, and security challenges, the commission is shaping up as one of the most closely watched inquiries in South Africa.
