The Department of Justice has been thrown into turmoil after senior officials were suspended and disciplinary action initiated over the failure to launch the long-awaited inquiry into corruption in South Africa’s criminal justice system.
The inquiry, chaired by retired Constitutional Court judge Mbuyiseli Madlanga, was due to begin public hearings on 1 September. Instead, it has been postponed indefinitely after the department failed to provide the infrastructure needed to support the commission’s work. The delay has already cut into the three-month period President Cyril Ramaphosa gave for the first interim report.
Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi confirmed that procurement processes in the department had collapsed, preventing her from intervening without breaking the law. She reported the matter to the president, who authorised decisive action. Deputy director-general for ICT Jabu Hlatshwayo has been suspended, while director-general Advocate Doc Mashabane faces disciplinary proceedings.
The setback has sparked a political storm. Critics say the delay undermines the fight against corruption and raises questions about political interference in law enforcement. The EFF accused government of establishing a commission “doomed to fail” and argued it was designed to shield suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, who is accused of meddling in investigations. Although placed on special leave, Mchunu still enjoys ministerial benefits, drawing sharp criticism.
Former president Jacob Zuma and his uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party have gone to court, calling the inquiry unconstitutional, unworkable within its six-month timeframe, and politically motivated. Zuma accused Ramaphosa of using state institutions to fight rivals while protecting allies inside the ANC.
Opposition leaders say the scandal exposes deeper dysfunction within the Justice Department. They warn that continued delays will erode public trust in the justice system. Parliament is now under pressure to strengthen oversight, with the EFF pushing for a special committee on law enforcement expected to begin work in September.
For many South Africans, the chaos around the Madlanga commission highlights doubts over government’s commitment to tackling corruption. With no new start date set and political battles intensifying, the future of the inquiry remains uncertain.