Pretoria: The chairperson of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System, Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, has expressed trust that justice will be served following the conclusion of the commission's work. Madlanga delivered an opening statement before the beginning of the commission's proceedings on Thursday, marking one year since the first hearings after it was announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa in July 2025.
According to South African Government News Agency, Madlanga stated, "With the revelations that are coming out, we trust that justice will be served." He noted that while the revelations at the Commission are commendable, the allegations have also been painful. Madlanga highlighted the issue of criminality suggesting that the criminal justice system has been infiltrated by corrupt state functionaries, which allowed criminals to exert undue influence without facing consequences.
The commission was established following allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, regarding a criminal syndicate influencing law enforcement agencies, the NPA, and intelligence services. Mkhwanazi was the first to testify at the commission.
Madlanga acknowledged that the commission is still in the process of assessing evidence and making definitive determinations. However, he pointed out emerging trends indicating serious criminality within the criminal justice system due to undue influence by criminal elements. The fact that several players within the system have been criminally charged or dismissed from employment supports these indications.
Looking ahead, Madlanga expressed hope that South Africa will be better served once the hearings and reports are concluded. He emphasized the importance of the process in establishing mechanisms to curb future criminality. He also acknowledged the support received from individuals and institutions for the commission process and expressed gratitude for the overwhelming public support.