Madlanga Commission moves behind closed doors for two weeks from today, public hearings return on 9 November
The Madlanga Commission paused public hearings and will take evidence in camera for two weeks from 5 October (TimesLIVE 1 Oct, eNCA, EWN, Briefly). Spokesperson Jeremy Michaels cited confidentiality of ongoing investigations and the difficulty of managing coverage near the elections. Public hearings resume on 9 November. A two-day seminar in October will prepare the final report. Phase two includes suspended police minister Senzo Mchunu; phase three should bring back KZN police commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. The final report is now reported as due to President Ramaphosa on 25 January 2027, though an earlier SAnews item gave 16 November.
The commission grew from claims by Lt-Gen Mkhwanazi of police corruption and political interference. Its findings have already led to resignations and dismissals, so its timetable shapes how fast the police service can be cleaned up.
Fewer public hearings means less live information for the next month. Yet the closed sessions may be where the most sensitive material is heard. The pause also keeps the inquiry out of the election-week news.
Closing the hearings protects live investigations and avoids the commission becoming an election platform.
Critics will say a month without open hearings, just before voters go to the polls, reduces transparency.
Expect leaks and commentary during the in camera weeks, but not evidence. The date to hold on to is 9 November, and the question is whether Mchunu appears then or later.
DailyDrop South Africa edition No. 1 · Morning · MON., OCT. 5, 2026