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The Madlanga Commission has issued a Rule 3 notice, formally notifying controversial North West businessman Oupa Brown Mogotsi of being implicated in the alleged unlawful interference at the South African Police Service (SAPS). As the GOOD Party, we welcome this development.

Mogotsi has been a central figure during the Commission’s early testimony, with multiple witnesses pointing to his proximity to senior SAPS officials and his alleged role in corrupting the integrity of law enforcement. While he now has the opportunity to respond to the allegations, the Commission retains the power to compel his appearance, and that power must be exercised should he fail to present himself voluntarily.

Nobody is safe when those entrusted with enforcing the law are in active collusion with individuals accused of serious crimes. The allegations before the Commission strike at the heart of public safety, the rule of law, and the basic trust citizens place in the police.

The SAPS cannot continue to operate under a cloud of suspicion. The Commission must be empowered to do its work without fear or favour, and its recommendations must be acted on with urgency. No stone should be left unturned in exposing the rot, and no individual, regardless of wealth, status, or political connection, should be shielded from accountability.

If South Africa is to remain a constitutional democracy governed by the rule of law, then those implicated in the erosion of state institutions must face the full consequences of their actions.

Issued by Brett Herron, GOOD: Secretary-General