Proceedings at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry were held behind closed doors on Wednesday after a new witness successfully applied to give evidence in private. The decision followed concerns that testifying in an open hearing could place the witness in danger.
The businessman, identified only as “Witness M”, is expected to provide evidence relating to one of the failed drug busts being examined by the commission. He argued that presenting his testimony publicly could threaten his safety.
Commission chairperson Mbuyiseli Madlanga granted the application before ordering that the remainder of the evidence be heard in camera.
Madlanga Commission Grants Witness Protection Request
The Madlanga Commission accepted the witness’s request after considering concerns about his personal safety. As a result, members of the public and media were excluded while the evidence was presented.
Witness M is expected to testify about his alleged involvement in one of the botched drug operations that have featured during the inquiry. Details of his evidence were not disclosed before the hearing moved into a closed session.
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The commission has previously heard testimony concerning alleged irregularities linked to several law enforcement operations.
Witness M Says Public Testimony Could Put His Life At Risk
The Witness M application centred on concerns that public testimony could expose him to serious personal risk. He told the commission that giving evidence openly could endanger his life.
After considering the request, Justice Madlanga approved the application and adjourned the public proceedings. The commission then continued hearing evidence without public access.
The decision means the witness’s testimony will remain confidential unless the commission later decides otherwise.
Madlanga Says Public Hearings Will Resume Later
Before adjourning, Justice Madlanga said it was not yet known when the commission would return to an open hearing. He explained that the duration of the closed proceedings could not be determined at that stage.
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“At this stage we have no idea by when we will be done so I can’t announce when we will resume with open session. That will be announced by our spokesperson in due course. Let’s adjourn.”
The commission is expected to provide an update on the resumption of public proceedings once the in-camera testimony has concluded.
