Ramaphosa Extends Mandate of Judicial Commission on Justice System Corruption

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended the timeline for the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System, allowing it additional time to complete its investigation and submit its final report.

The Presidency announced that the commission will now submit a second interim report by 29 May 2026 and its final report by 31 August 2026.

Inquiry into Allegations within Criminal Justice System

The commission was established to investigate allegations made by Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi on 6 July 2025, which raised concerns about criminality, political interference, and corruption within South Africa's criminal justice system.

President Ramaphosa formally constituted the inquiry on 21 July 2025, acting under Section 84(2)(f) of the South African Constitution, which empowers the President to establish commissions of inquiry.

Extension Granted After Request by Commission

According to the Presidency, the extension was granted after the commission requested additional time due to the large number of witnesses who still need to testify before the inquiry.

The inquiry is expected to continue examining evidence and testimony related to the allegations affecting the integrity and independence of the justice system.

Commission Leadership

The commission is chaired by Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, with Advocates Sesi Baloyi SC and Sandile Khumalo SC serving as commissioners.

The panel has been tasked with investigating the allegations and making recommendations aimed at strengthening accountability and transparency in the criminal justice system.

Interim Findings Already Submitted

The commission submitted its first interim report on 17 December 2025, before resuming hearings in January 2026.

In that report, the commission:

• Referred several matters for immediate criminal investigation

• Recommended urgent prosecutorial decisions in certain cases

• Proposed actions regarding the employment status and possible suspension of specific individuals

Continued Focus on Justice System Integrity

The ongoing inquiry aims to uncover the extent of alleged corruption and interference within key justice institutions, with the commission expected to provide further findings and policy recommendations in its upcoming reports.

The Presidency said the work of the commission remains crucial to strengthening public trust in South Africa's criminal justice system and ensuring accountability where wrongdoing is identified.