The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, which is currently underway, has caused significant disruptions in South Africa’s political landscape by disclosing what it describes as a coordinated effort to “recapture the state” in advance of the 2029 general elections. Reverend Mo’hau Khumalo has issued a warning that the nation is “on the brink of repeating the sins of the past” in response to the explosive discoveries that have incited a national conversation.
A network of politically connected business figures and former state officials has purportedly been working behind the scenes to regain influence over key government sectors, including energy, logistics, and public procurement, according to preliminary evidence presented before the commission. The commission, which was initiated earlier this year to investigate persistent corruption and interference in state institutions, is presided over by Justice Mandisa Madlanga.
In a public statement released after the session on Friday, Reverend Khumalo, a respected anti-corruption activist and leader of the National Moral Restoration Forum, issued a warning. “The Madlanga Commission is not merely witnessing corruption; it is a concerted effort to re-establish the machinery of state capture,” he cautioned. “If citizens and institutions do not take action now, we will enter 2029 under the shadow of another captured state.”
Khumalo emphasised the importance of law enforcement agencies to act promptly on the evidence that has already been presented to the commission, urging for the “immediate prosecution of those implicated, regardless of their political or economic status.” He further stated that faith-based organisations would organise civic dialogues and prayer vigils across the country to increase awareness of the purported scheme.
Investigators have purportedly identified offshore accounts, phantom companies, and undisclosed campaign donations that are purportedly associated with the network, according to sources close to the commission. According to them, these discoveries mimic the patterns observed during the previous state capture era.
In her closing remarks on Friday, Justice Madlanga reiterated that the commission would not be “intimidated or diverted” by political pressure. “Our obligation is to the Constitution and the people of South Africa.” She declared unequivocally that no individual is exempt from accountability.
Opposition parties have demanded the comprehensive dissemination of all interim findings, while the Presidency has yet to respond to the revelations. As per the Democratic Alliance, the disclosures “confirm that state capture never truly ended; it merely evolved.”
Reverend Khumalo concluded his statement by urging unity and vigilance. “South Africa must not once more fall asleep.” This is the moment to safeguard our democracy before it is resold to the highest bidder.
