Ramaphosa extends Madlanga Commission report deadline to January 2027

President Cyril Ramaphosa has granted the Madlanga Commission a final extension to submit its report, moving the deadline to 25 January 2027.

The Presidency announced the decision on Saturday, saying the additional time would allow the commission to process further evidence and hear outstanding expert testimony related to its terms of reference.

The inquiry is examining allegations of criminality, political interference and corruption in South Africa’s criminal justice system. It was established after KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi made wide-ranging allegations about interference in policing and law-enforcement structures in July 2025.

Final deadline follows earlier extension

The commission had previously been expected to submit its final report on 16 November 2026. The new deadline gives it more than two additional months to complete hearings, assess evidence and draft its findings.

The Presidency said the extension was needed to accommodate evidence from experts who have made recommendations linked to the inquiry’s mandate. Ramaphosa also thanked the commission for its work and acknowledged the follow-up being conducted by law-enforcement agencies on testimony heard during public proceedings.

Commission spokesperson Jeremy Michaels told SABC News that the inquiry welcomed the extension. He said it would allow the commission to hear outstanding testimony and complete the final report.

The commission began public hearings on 17 September 2025. Its proceedings have included testimony about policing, intelligence, corruption investigations and alleged political influence within the criminal justice system.

The inquiry’s eventual report is expected to set out its findings and recommendations. Until then, allegations made before the commission remain subject to its assessment and any separate criminal or disciplinary processes.