President Cyril Ramaphosa says he is open to extending the work of the Madlanga Commission after the commission confirmed it is in discussions with him about receiving more time to complete its investigation.
Speaking on Monday, Ramaphosa said he would carefully consider any formal request for an extension, praising the commission for the progress it had made in uncovering alleged corruption within South Africa’s police service.
The Madlanga Commission was established following explosive allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who accused senior figures within the country’s criminal justice system of corruption. Since the inquiry began, several arrests have been made and a number of police officers have been suspended.
Defending his decision to establish the commission, Ramaphosa said its work has demonstrated the value of independent investigations despite the criticism he initially faced.
“Madlanga Commission has been one of the most outstanding processes that we have embarked upon. And, of course, you will recall that I was heavily criticised by everyone that I was setting up yet another commission. And I think South Africans have come to see that there is great value in enabling people who are independent, who’ve got a level of expertise to deal with matters that are challenging. The terms of reference I gave them are quite extensive, and I’m glad that they have been doing their work in those terms of reference,” the president said.
Ramaphosa said the commission is already driving meaningful reform within law enforcement.
“We are beginning to see real transformative processes emerging through the Madlanga Commission. And that is going to enable us to get rid of the rot and the challenges in our police service. And, obviously, I am very pleased with the work that is being done. It may well be that they need a little bit more time, and I’ll listen to that request if it comes,” Ramaphosa said.
