By Marcus Moloko
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry has cost South African taxpayers a whopping R147 million so far, according to the 2025 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) presented in Parliament on Wednesday.
South African’s are footing the bill for justice as the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, launched to probe criminality, political interference, and corruption within the country’s justice system.
According to the National Treasury’s briefing on the 2025 Medium Term Budget Policy Statement, about R147 million has already been spent on the commission since it began on 17 September 2025.
The commission was established by President Cyril Ramaphosa following allegations by KwaZulu-Natal POlice Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who claimed that political interference had compromised the South African Police Service with criminal networks.
Mkhwanazi in during the July briefing alleged that criminal networks were allegedly protected by elements within the judiciary.
The announcement prompted the suspension of Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and other investigations which have had the country concerned at the rampant corruption alleged in testimonies during the Madlanga Commission.
What are you paying for?
The R147 Million covers operational costs including legal teams and investigators, witness protection and logistics, and venue hire and administrative support.
Treasury has not yet broken down the full allocation per category, even though the MTBPS confirms that the Madlanga Commission is one of the key items receiving funding from the R13.5 billion contingency reserve set aside.
Next year’s municipal elections will also receive a chunk from the reserve fund.
As more hearings continue, the commission is expected to call more high-profile witnesses to delve deeper into allegations of judicial capture and political shielding of criminal elements.
This is likely to dig deeper into your pocket.
INSIDE POLITICS