Chief Justice Maya honours Justice Madlanga for intellect

CHIEF Justice Mandisa Maya has praised retiring Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga for his remarkable intellect, humility, and unwavering dedication to justice, as he prepares to lead the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into alleged corruption and political interference within SAPS.

- SIMON MAJADIBODU

“Justice Madlanga’s impact has not been confined to the courtroom,” Maya said during a special sitting of the Constitutional Court, held to honour his 17 years on the bench.

The ceremonial session, attended by senior members of the legal fraternity, the executive, and Parliament, was led by Maya, who paid tribute to her departing colleague.

Madlanga, 63, is set to chair the Commission of Inquiry into allegations of criminality, political interference, and protection of criminal elements within the South African Police Service (SAPS).

The inquiry was announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa after explosive claims were made by KwaZulu-Natal provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

Mkhwanazi accused senior police officials, including suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, of interfering in politically sensitive investigations and dismantling the task team probing political killings in the province.

The commission is expected to run for six months at an estimated cost of R147.9 million.

Reflecting on Madlanga’s legacy, Maya said Madlanga played a pivotal role as chief evidence leader in the Marikana Commission of Inquiry, saying he brought “clarity and compassion to one of the most painful chapters in our democracy”.

“His leadership ensured that the voices of the victims were heard and that accountability was pursued with rigour,” she said.