By Lesedi Sibiya-Diplomatic Insider
President Cyril Ramaphosa has alluded to possibly extending the deadline on the Madlanga Commission should it be the case that the commissioners may need more time to finish their conclusions.
“I am very pleased with the work that is being done with the Madlanga Commission. It may well be that they need a little bit more time and I’ll listen to that request if it comes” said Ramaphosa speaking at the Chris Hani Regional Volunteers Launch.
The mandate for reaching a conclusion is originally set to July 31, as Ramaphosa has extended the overall mandate as the final report is due for August 31. Even though a possible extension is looming, the commission of inquiry has been sitting in heavy amounts of pressure due to the large scope of the work including logistical challenges and health related interruptions which has been the cause of major setbacks for the commissioners.
The setback of the absences of witnesses is also a major cause for the delays in the commission. Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, who is an alleged kingpin, had his subpoenaed testimony postponed due to heightened public interest as well as plea negotiations with the National Prosecuting Agency (NPA).
Major General, Feroz Khan, has also been absent due to being shot last month in Johannesburg. The list of delays has put mounting pressure on the commission’s progress and has intensified scrutiny over whether or not the commission is able to complete their work in time.
“We are beginning to see real transformative processes that are emerging through the commission. And that is going to enable us to get rid of the rot and the challenges in our police service” said Ramaphosa.
“The terms of reference I gave are quite extensive, and I’m glad they have been doing their work in terms of those terms of reference,” said Ramaphosa. He also highlighted that the findings of the commission will play a very crucial role in shaping the reforms in the justice system of South Africa.
“The reports they need to give are critical, that will enable us to have the ability to reform our police service,” said Ramaphosa.