The content on this page is not written by Polity.org.za, but is supplied by third parties. This content does not constitute news reporting by Polity.org.za.

The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) welcomes the extension of the deadline for the submission of the final report by the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System.

The extension will provide the Commission with the necessary time to conclude outstanding work, hear any remaining evidence where required, and comprehensively address the issues that emerged during the course of the hearings. Given the complexity, gravity and far-reaching implications of the matters under investigation, it is imperative that the Commission is afforded every opportunity to produce a thorough, credible and evidence-based final report.

The IFP was the first political party to call for the establishment of an independent Commission of Inquiry, chaired by a retired judge, following the explosive allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi in July 2025. At the time, we argued that allegations of such seriousness could not be ignored and required an independent and transparent investigation to restore public confidence in the country’s criminal justice system.

Although some dismissed the Commission as an unnecessary expenditure of public funds and questioned whether it would produce meaningful outcomes, the IFP maintained that the truth could only emerge through an independent judicial process. The proceedings of the Commission have vindicated that position. The evidence and revelations that have come to light would, in all likelihood, have remained hidden from the South African public had the Commission not been established.

The IFP further welcomes the swift action taken by the South African Police Service in pursuing investigations arising from evidence presented before the Commission. 

The work of the Commission has also played an important role in restoring public confidence in the South African Police Service by demonstrating a renewed commitment to accountability, transparency and the rule of law. While significant work still lies ahead, the progress made thus far provides hope that efforts to combat corruption and political interference within the criminal justice system are gaining momentum.

The IFP looks forward to the Commission’s final report and urges all relevant authorities to ensure that its findings and recommendations are implemented without fear, favour or prejudice.

Issued by IFP National Spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa