Madlanga Commission Hearing Postponed After Crime Intelligence Officer Calls In Sick

The Madlanga Commission was forced to postpone a scheduled hearing after a police officer from the Crime Intelligence unit called in sick, derailing plans for testimony on Thursday.

The officer had been expected to take the stand as part of the commission’s ongoing inquiry. However, proceedings shifted after officials were informed of the sudden illness.

The delay adds to mounting frustration among commissioners over a growing number of witnesses failing to appear due to medical reasons, prompting discussions about stricter oversight measures.

Growing Scrutiny Over Medical Certificates At Madlanga Commission

Commissioners indicated they are increasingly concerned about what appears to be a pattern of last-minute medical absences. One proposal under consideration would require medical practitioners who issue sick notes for scheduled witnesses to justify their assessments before the commission.

Co-commissioner Sesi Baloyi said the issue “should be addressed as it started to become a norm.”

The matter gained attention earlier this week when evidence leader Mathew Chaskalson SC challenged the adequacy of a medical certificate submitted on behalf of another witness. The witness’s legal representatives, Matlala Attorneys, have been instructed to provide a valid and satisfactory medical certificate by Thursday.

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Commissioners warned that failure to comply could result in the doctor who issued the certificate being subpoenaed to appear before the inquiry and explain the assessment.

“We were meant to have a police officer from Crime Intelligence, but the officer has taken ill. We will hear a postponement application at 10am,” Michaels said.

No information was provided regarding the nature of the illness or whether the officer’s testimony will be rescheduled.

SAPS, Judiciary Allegations Under Spotlight

The postponement comes as the commission continues examining allegations involving politicians, police officers and alleged cartel members accused of infiltrating the South African Police Service and the Judiciary.

The Crime Intelligence officer’s anticipated evidence was expected to contribute to the inquiry’s examination of these claims.

The latest development follows closely watched testimony from suspended SAPS deputy national commissioner Lt-Gen Shadrack Sibiya. During his appearance, Sibiya acknowledged knowing alleged cartel figure Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala and inviting him to a family event while denying accusations of corruption and improper influence.

He also rejected allegations that he instructed the sharing of sensitive police documents, including a warrant related to blogger Musa Khawula.

A new witness is scheduled to testify on Thursday as the inquiry continues.