Pretoria Chief Magistrate Vusimuzi Mahlangu has withdrawn from presiding over the bail modification hearing of fraud and racketeering accused Dumisani Khumalo, following serious allegations raised against him at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
The dramatic recusal took place on Monday, 14 October 2025, during Khumalo’s application to have his restrictive bail conditions relaxed. Mahlangu, who had been overseeing the proceedings, abruptly stepped down, citing concerns about maintaining judicial integrity.
“In light of recent developments and to avoid any perception of bias, I find it necessary to step aside from this matter,” he stated briefly before adjourning the session.
His decision follows sworn testimony by KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who named Mahlangu while appearing before the ongoing Madlanga Commission last week. The commission is probing alleged interference and misconduct within the judiciary and law enforcement structures. Although the full extent of the allegations against Mahlangu remains undisclosed, Mkhwanazi reportedly expressed concern over judicial impropriety linked to multiple sensitive legal matters.
Khumalo, currently facing charges related to fraud and racketeering, is operating under strict bail conditions, including restricted travel and compulsory routine check-ins. His legal team was seeking a relaxation of these terms, but the case will now be reassigned to a different magistrate.
Legal experts say Mahlangu’s withdrawal highlights the growing ripple effects of the Madlanga Commission’s investigations, which are beginning to impact active court cases. The Office of the Chief Justice has not yet issued a statement on the matter.
The commission is scheduled to resume later this week, with expectations that further revelations may emerge.
