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
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