Madlanga Commission kicks off this week – and taxpayers are footing the bill

AS SOUTH Africa braces for the Madlanga Commission, taxpayers are footing a R147.9 million bill for 2025 and 2026. The key question remains on whether the country will finally see value for money, or it will be just another report gathering dust.

- SIMON MAJADIBODU

The Commission of Inquiry into criminality, political interference and corruption in the criminal justice system has been allocated R147.9m.

Concerns about the commission's budget were raised by multiple political parties, doubting whether the outcomes will justify the cost.

The Madlanga Commission, prompted by allegations made by SAPS KwaZulu-Natal provincial police commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, is set to begin public hearings on Wednesday.

It failed to commence on September 1, after the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development did not provide the necessary infrastructure and resources on time.

In response to queries by IOL News, Department of Justice and Constitutional Development spokesperson Terrence Manase said National Treasury on August 8, was yet to respond on the Adjustment Estimates of National Expenditure process.

“The Department has requested a total budget of R147.9m for 2025/26,” Manase confirmed.