President Cyril Ramaphosa has indicated he is willing to grant the Madlanga Commission more time to complete its work if commissioners formally request an extension .
Speaking in Cofimvaba in the Eastern Cape, Ramaphosa said he was pleased with the commission’s progress and would listen to any request for additional time . The commission is currently expected to conclude public hearings by 31 July and submit its final report by 31 August .
However, the inquiry has faced several setbacks that have raised questions about whether it can meet its current deadlines. Key witnesses have either been unable to appear or have had their testimony postponed . Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, a controversial businessman and alleged crime figure, is now scheduled to testify on 15 July after his earlier appearance was delayed .
Another significant development was the shooting of Major-General Feroz Khan, the deputy head of Crime Intelligence, on 28 June, just days before he was due to testify . Khan remains in hospital, and the commission has continued to hear evidence against him in his absence .
Commission spokesperson Jeremy Michaels confirmed that discussions with the Presidency about a possible extension are ongoing, as the inquiry faces a heavy workload and a tight schedule . Michaels noted that the commission would seek only a short extension if needed, rather than a lengthy delay .
The commission was established in July 2025 following explosive allegations from KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi about political interference and organised crime infiltration in law enforcement . It has already submitted interim reports and referred several matters for criminal investigation .
