Ramaphosa sets reference terms for judicial commission of inquiry into criminal justice system

JOHANNESBURG - President Cyril Ramaphosa has set the terms of reference for the judicial commission of inquiry into criminality, political interference, and corruption in the criminal justice system.

Acting Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga will chair the commission, which is expected to begin in August, with a date for its commencement yet to be announced.

The Madlanga commission will investigate the explosive allegations of corruption and collusion made public by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, earlier in July.

The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry into Police will probe whether criminal syndicates have infiltrated or exerted undue influence over at least eight state organs.

This includes, but is not limited to, the South African Police Service (SAPS), all Gauteng metro police departments, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the judiciary, Correctional Services, and the State Security Agency.

The terms of reference for the commission were set out in a government gazette, published by President Cyril Ramaphosa on Wednesday.

It emphasises that the commission will have the power to summon witnesses and compel the production of documents, conduct search and seizure operations subject to applicable law, and refer matters for immediate criminal investigation and urgent decisions on prosecution.

The commission will file two reports to Ramaphosa, one after three months and the second after six months, which will include recommendations that can be immediately actioned.

The commission’s final report will be sent to the speaker of the National Assembly and the chief justice.