According to reports, Bishop Azwihangwi Maumela has formally withdrawn a series of statements he made about President Cyril Ramaphosa, law-enforcement agencies and the Madlanga Commission following the arrest and court appearance of suspended Deputy National Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Shadrack Sibiya.
Maumela had previously spoken publicly in defence of Sibiya, whom he described as a close friend. Following Sibiya’s arrest, the bishop alleged that the case was connected to an internal succession struggle within the South African Police Service (SAPS), rather than being solely related to the criminal allegations facing the suspended general.
He also made comments concerning Ramaphosa, the police and the Madlanga Commission, while warning of possible retaliation. Those allegations were not established as facts.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Maumela said he had reflected on his media engagements and accepted that he should have exercised greater restraint, particularly because the criminal case involves allegations concerning a minor. He formally withdrew his previous statements and apologised to those who may have been affected by his comments.
“I therefore unreservedly withdraw the statements I made and sincerely apologise to anyone who may have been affected or offended by my words,” Maumela said.
He specifically withdrew his remarks concerning Ramaphosa, law-enforcement agencies and the Madlanga Commission. He added: “I did not intend to threaten, harm, or intimidate anyone.”
Maumela also accepted responsibility for the manner in which he handled his media engagements and said he would no longer comment publicly on the matter while the legal process continues. He said he had received advice and recognised the need for restraint and respect for due process in sensitive cases.
NOW:
APOLOGY AND WITHDRAWAL STATEMENT:
By Bishop Azwihangwi Maumela
"Following yesterday’s court proceedings involving General Sibiya was interviewed by several media houses and made certain statements and allegations which, after serious reflection and consultation, I wish to…
— Pule Letshwiti-Jones (@pule_jones) September 23, 2026
The reversal came only a day after Maumela made his original comments outside the Randburg Magistrate’s Court, where Sibiya appeared following his arrest. Sibiya faces allegations including rape, trafficking in persons and the sexual grooming of a child. His matter has been postponed to 29 September for a formal bail hearing.
The Madlanga Commission itself is examining allegations involving criminality, political interference and corruption within South Africa’s criminal justice system. President Ramaphosa recently extended the deadline for the Commission’s final report to 25 January 2027 to allow it to process additional evidence.
Maumela’s retraction therefore represents a significant change from his earlier public position. His original allegations remain unsubstantiated, while his latest statement indicates that he intends to withdraw from public commentary and allow the relevant legal processes to continue.