Evidence leader ‘withdraws’ from police inquiry

Advocate Terry Motau SC has apparently thrown in the towel as chief evidence leader of the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry into criminality, political interference and corruption in the criminal justice system, Legalbrief Africa reports that it appears that Mathew Chaskalson SC will replace him and a fourth advocate will be hired to join the team, which includes senior counsel Mahlape Sello and Adila Hassim. ‘The commission will not publicly discuss internal staffing matters. The commission is squarely focused on its job, to conduct an inquiry into the gravely serious allegations that SA’s law enforcement agencies have been infiltrated and unduly influenced by criminal syndicates and drug cartels. We will not be distracted as the work of the commission is critically important for the rule of law in our country,’ said spokesperson Jeremy Michaels. The Star reports that analysts believe Motau’s pending resignation has raised questions about its independence, warning that this could open the door for more exits. Political analyst Zakhele Ndlovu said although Motau’s resignation from the commission will not derail its work, it may raise questions about its credibility. ‘Without him (Motau) giving us the reason for quitting, it leaves us speculating. Some people think he could have been threatened. We may never know the truth,’ he said. Another political analyst, Professor Sipho Seepe, said the country should brace itself for delays, saying the commission should have proper planning for such hiccups. ‘No individual is indispensable. Delays caused by resignations should be factored in any proper planning. To that extent, there will be someone to replace him,’ Seepe said.

Former President Thabo Mbeki on Saturday vouched for the courage demonstrated by KwaZulu-Natal  police commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, in publicly addressing the challenges within the country’s criminal justice system. The Star reports that Mbeki stated that the commission is crucial for SA to fully understand and address deep-rooted issues surrounding crime, corruption and political interference. ‘I am very glad that the commissioner had the courage to speak out,’ Mbeki said. At last, we have the possibility to hear evidence from everyone involved and gain a clearer picture of the state of our criminal justice system, the criminals who carry out terrible acts, and how they operate.’ He highlighted the critical connection between crime syndicates, political actors and the weakening criminal justice institutions such as the police and prosecution services. ‘What is being raised is a very important issue – the connection between criminals, politicians and the weakening of general values in the criminal justice system,’ he explained.