The Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference, and Corruption in South Africa’s Criminal Justice System has submitted its Interim Report to President Cyril Ramaphosa, marking a critical milestone after months of intensive hearings.
The report follows 45 days of testimony from 37 witnesses, beginning with Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi on 17 September 2025. Mkhwanazi’s appearance came after he publicly raised allegations at a Durban media briefing on 6 July 2025, setting the stage for a high-profile inquiry into corruption and interference within the justice system.
The hearings were conducted across multiple formats: public sessions, partially public sessions, and one fully in-camera hearing. Phase One featured 28 witnesses providing evidence, while Phase Two allowed nine witnesses to respond to specific allegations.
In delivering the report, the Commission underscored the growing risks of criminal interference, intimidation, and violent threats faced by witnesses and staff. Despite these challenges, it reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.
The Commission will pause operations over the festive period but will resume hearings in 2026, continuing its mandate to investigate systemic corruption and interference in South Africa’s criminal justice system. In its statement, the Commission thanked witnesses, journalists, state entities, and the public for their cooperation and support during the inquiry.
Observers say the Interim Report sets the tone for a potentially explosive second phase, with implications for senior officials and law enforcement personnel under scrutiny.
