As the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry entered its second phase on Tuesday, in which individuals implicated in alleged wrongdoing are now giving testimony, members of the Municipal Employees & Civil Servants Union (MECSU) staged a protest outside the inquiry venue, demanding the opportunity to present additional evidence.

Last week, phase one of the commission concluded with witness testimony focusing on alleged misconduct within the EMPD.

Witnesses implicated several senior officials, including suspended acting police chief Julius Mkhwanazi, who is accused of unlawfully authorising the installation of blue lights on vehicles belonging to controversial businessman Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala.

MECSU general secretary Vukile Mlungwana said the peaceful protest aimed to secure the union’s right to testify before the commission, which is investigating criminality, political interference, and corruption within the City of Ekurhuleni metro police and related departments.

“As a registered trade union organising in the local government and public sectors – with significant membership in the City of Ekurhuleni and its metro police – we have been following the proceedings closely,” Mlungwana said.

“We believe certain material evidence requires clarification to provide proper context and assist the commission.”

The union outlined several issues it wishes to address in its testimony, including:
• Appointment of senior officials without the required qualifications.

• Fraudulent misrepresentation of qualifications.

• Alleged improper conduct by an SAPS detective and a prosecutor.

• Outsourcing of security services using funds allocated for insourcing security guards and cleaners.

• Inconsistent disciplinary action in sexual harassment cases.

• Selective promotion of VIP Unit officers.

• Alleged abuse of power and misuse of municipal resources by EMPD deputy directors.

Commission spokesperson Jeremy Michaels received the union’s memorandum and addressed the protesters. He emphasised that although phase two had begun, phase one remained open due to scheduling delays.

“The commission has not yet heard all evidence,” Michaels said.

“We will continue hearing phase one witnesses alongside phase two. Thank you for bringing these grave allegations to our attention. Your correspondence will pass through the commission’s formal process for receiving evidence, and we will remain in contact with your leadership. Any additional information you wish to submit will be accepted through the proper channels.”

Several senior Ekurhuleni officials who have already testified before the commission include retired deputy chief of police Revo Spies; suspended EMPD chief Isaac Mapiyeye; and EMPD spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Kelebogile Thepa.

The commission’s final report will be compiled once all evidence has been heard, after which its findings and recommendations will be submitted to the president for a decision on the next steps.

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