The name of Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema surfaced unexpectedly during Monday’s sitting of the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, as a witness alleged that Malema is friends with a senior police official.
Testifying under the pseudonym Witness A, the insider told the commission that Malema maintains a close relationship with Gauteng Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya. The revelation came amid ongoing testimony into alleged political interference, corruption, and the manipulation of high-profile criminal cases within the South African Police Service (SAPS).
“I know that General Sibiya and Mr. Julius Malema are friends. They have been seen together several times, and it is known in certain circles,” said Witness A under oath. “This friendship has raised questions about the independence of some investigations involving political figures.”
While no direct wrongdoing was attributed to Malema, the disclosure sparked tension in the hearing room, prompting inquiry chairperson Justice Madlanga to request that the witness clarify the context of the alleged relationship. Witness A maintained that their claim was based on “credible internal discussions” within law enforcement circles, though they did not provide documentary proof.
General Sibiya, a seasoned investigator known for his involvement in major corruption probes, has not yet responded publicly to the claim. His legal representatives, however, indicated that they would address the matter when he takes the stand later this week.
The EFF has not issued an official statement, but party insiders reportedly dismissed the claim as a “diversionary tactic” intended to tarnish Malema’s image. The Commission, established earlier this year, is probing the alleged influence of political figures in the operations of SAPS and the Hawks, particularly concerning case prioritization and interference in prosecutions.
Political analysts say the mention of Malema could intensify scrutiny on the intersection between politics and policing. “Even without evidence of wrongdoing, the mere mention of a political leader’s name in such proceedings can have reputational implications,” said political commentator Dr. Sibusiso Moyo.
Justice Madlanga reminded witnesses that the commission is a fact-finding process, not a courtroom, and that unverified statements would be treated cautiously. “We are here to establish truth, not to entertain speculation,” he emphasized.
As the hearings continue this week, both Malema and Sibiya are expected to come under renewed public attention, with the commission set to probe deeper into alleged alliances between political leaders and senior police officials.