By Johnathan Paoli
Controversial International Pentecostal Holiness Church (IPHC) faction leader Michael Sandlana has been denied bail by the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court, marking a significant development in a high-profile case that has rocked one of South Africa’s wealthiest religious institutions.
Sandlana, who faces charges of corruption and money laundering, is accused of bribing Pretoria High Court Judge Portia Phahlane to secure a ruling in his favour in a long-running and bitter succession battle within the IPHC.
The court ruled that Sandlana would remain in custody, with the matter postponed to 6 March 2026 for further proceedings.
Handing down the bail judgment, the court found that Sandlana had failed to demonstrate exceptional circumstances warranting his release.
Prosecutors argued that he posed a risk to the integrity of the justice process, citing the seriousness of the allegations, his alleged influence within church structures, and concerns around interference with witnesses.
According to the state, the alleged bribery was aimed at influencing judicial outcomes related to the leadership dispute that has divided the IPHC into rival factions for several years.
At the heart of the conflict is control of the church’s vast assets and financial resources, estimated to be worth around R400 million.
The succession battle has repeatedly spilled into the courts, paralysing church governance and fuelling accusations of corruption, intimidation and financial mismanagement.
Sandlana has consistently denied the bribery allegations and maintains his innocence.
His legal team argued that the case against him was weak and that his continued detention was unjustified.
However, the prosecution countered that the charges were supported by detailed investigations and that releasing him on bail would undermine public confidence in the justice system.
Beyond the financial and legal disputes, Sandlana has also been portrayed by critics and some within the church as a leader who ruled through fear.
The case has attracted national attention due to its implications for judicial integrity and the governance of powerful religious institutions.
Sandlana, who is also facing separate fraud and murder-related accusations, remains behind bars.
He is expected to reappear in court on 6 March 2026, when the matter will continue as investigations and pre-trial processes unfold.
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