The ECONOMIC Freedom Fighters (EFF) stated that the repeated extension of the Madlanga Commission without fully disclosing its progress and recommendations reduces its openness and credibility of the investigation to the public.
The group said it welcomed the extension of the investigation but criticized the way the office of the President managed the investigation, saying it was unsure about the transparency of the office.
On Thursday, Ramaphosa extended the working time of the commission, as its final report is due on 16 November 2026 instead of the original deadline of 31 August 2026.
“The commission will deliver its report on Monday, November 16, 2026, instead of August 31, 2026, as originally expected.”
The spokesperson for the office of the President, Mr. Vincent Magwenya, said that the extension of time made by the president was so that the commission could hear the remaining evidence on their work list.
In a statement, the EFF said it realized that it was futile The commission found disturbing evidence of the corruption of South Africa’s criminal justice system by organized crime groups, abuse of public institutions, political interference in law enforcement agencies and widespread corruption in the country.
“However, the way the president continues to manage the commission with small announcements does not give certainty or clarity in the process he is following,” said EFF spokesperson Thembi Msane.
He said this is the second time the commission’s term has been extended, but Ramaphosa failed to explain how much time the commission really needs to complete its work.
On the other hand, the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) has said that it accepts that the president has chosen to simply extend Madlanga’s term.
It said that it believes that the extension of its time will allow the committee to be able to find enough time to complete all its work properly and without haste.
This, he said, will enable the commission to properly collect all the evidence it has. It said it was the first political party to propose this type of commission after the KwaZulu Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla made serious allegations in a press conference held in July last year.
It goes on to say that the allegations he made were not easy at all to be dismissed as if nothing had been heard.
He emphasized that the establishment of this commission brought back great hope to the people of South Africa in the fight against corruption.
He said that it is good that everything that was hidden has become public as this commission continues.
He also commended the police for making sure that all those entrusted with the commission were given Sigonyela’s bracelets.
He further said that the operation of this commission has led the people of this country to start trusting the police in this country.