A Deep Dive into the High-Powered Legal Team Probing Explosive Corruption Allegations in South Africa’s Criminal Justice System
Mkhwanazi’s Explosive Allegations Shake the System
KZN provincial police commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, recently made headlines after levelling serious allegations of corruption, criminality, and political interference within the country’s criminal justice system. At the centre of these allegations is suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, whom Mkhwanazi accuses of protecting controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala and his associate Brown Mogotsi.
These claims, if proven, could have massive implications for the integrity of South Africa’s policing and legal institutions. In response, Acting Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga has convened a heavyweight commission backed by an elite team of legal experts to investigate the matter. Read more about Mkhwanazi’s past statements here.
Madlanga Heads the High-Stakes Commission
At the helm is Acting Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, a widely respected figure in South African jurisprudence. Known for his firm stance on constitutional matters and judicial integrity, Justice Madlanga now chairs the commission probing Mkhwanazi’s allegations. His leadership brings significant judicial credibility and signals the seriousness with which the state is approaching the inquiry.
Madlanga previously served on the Constitutional Court and is known for upholding accountability. His role in this commission is not merely ceremonial—he is responsible for steering the legal and investigative direction of the entire process. For insights into his judicial background, visit the Constitutional Court of South Africa.
Terry Motau SC: The VBS Whistleblower Returns
Advocate Terry Motau SC is no stranger to high-profile investigations. His explosive 2018 report, VBS Mutual Bank: The Great Bank Heist, led to the exposure of grand-scale looting and resulted in nearly 30 criminal cases. Now, as chief evidence leader, Motau brings his forensic sharpness to the Mkhwanazi probe.
He also previously investigated R18 billion in irregular expenditure during former Minister Lindiwe Sisulu’s tenure in the Department of Water and Sanitation. His presence on this commission ensures that the financial and political trails in the Mkhwanazi case will be followed without compromise.
Peter Goss: Governance Guru Joins the Fray
Professor Peter Goss, co-chief evidence leader, is a heavyweight in corporate governance and forensic auditing. A published author and University of Johannesburg professor, Goss’s analytical mind is crucial for dissecting the complexities of political interference and structural rot within police systems.
His leadership experience at Discovery Health and the Communications Risk Centre makes him particularly skilled at examining both private and public sector malpractice. Visit Peter Gross for more about his academic work.
Matthew Chaskalson SC: Veteran of State Capture Inquiries
Advocate Matthew Chaskalson SC is another legal giant who played a key role in South Africa’s post-apartheid constitutional formation. He served as an evidence leader during the Zondo Commission into state capture and helped recover R639 million for Transnet pensioners.
Chaskalson is known for his deep understanding of legal reform and public asset recovery. His prior collaboration with the National Prosecuting Authority’s Asset Forfeiture Unit equips him well to handle this current high-stakes investigation.
Adila Hassim SC: Champion of Socioeconomic Justice
Adila Hassim SC is widely respected for her passionate advocacy in health and human rights law. She made headlines earlier this year as part of South Africa’s legal team in the genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
She was also lead counsel in the Life Esidimeni arbitration, which investigated the tragic deaths of over 140 psychiatric patients. Hassim’s involvement ensures that the victims of corruption—especially the vulnerable—won’t be overlooked.
Mahlape Sello SC: Arbitration and Legal Reform Specialist
Advocate Mahlape Sello SC is a seasoned practitioner and former South African Law Reform Commission member. She has a rich history in legislative development, arbitration, and corporate oversight.
Her past role in the Advertising Standards Authority and on the Life Healthcare board has armed her with the governance experience necessary for decoding institutional failures within the police hierarchy.
Rising Advocates: Segeels-Ncube, Pooe, and Motlhasedi
The commission isn’t only anchored by seasoned veterans—it also includes a fresh generation of legal minds. Advocate Lee Segeels-Ncube, from the Bridge Group of Advocates, is joined by Thabang Pooe, who holds an LLM from UCLA and previously clerked for Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga.
Ofentse Motlhasedi adds her human rights acumen, having clerked for Justice Sisi Khampepe and Justice Kiptoo Tunoi of Kenya. Her time at the Socio-Economic Rights Institute of SA gives her valuable insight into community-level impact assessments.
Secretary Dr Nolitha Vukuza: The Organiser Behind the Scenes
Every major inquiry needs a steady hand managing logistics, documentation, and administration. Enter Dr Nolitha Vukuza, a former senior executive at the University of Johannesburg and now secretary to the commission.
Her academic and institutional experience ensures seamless coordination of hearings, witness testimony, and media relations.
The Stakes Are Monumental
With powerful figures, including a suspended police minister and alleged ties to criminal networks, under scrutiny, the implications of this commission’s findings could reshape public trust in law enforcement. It’s not just about one province or one commissioner—the outcome could ripple throughout the entire justice system.
Why This Commission Matters for Every South African
This investigation isn’t just political theatre—it’s about safeguarding democratic institutions. The calibre of the legal team reflects a national determination to root out deep-seated corruption.
As citizens, we owe it to ourselves to follow these proceedings closely. Public participation and scrutiny remain critical to holding our leaders accountable.
Also read: Malema Offers Mkhwanazi a Position in the EFF: Will He Accept?
