The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry in Pretoria has granted Witness M’s the application to have their testimony heard in camera.
The witness asked the commission to close proceedings to the public, saying their evidence contained sensitive information.
In an affidavit, Witness M states that the evidence relates to a drug bust and involves allegations concerning heads of state, drug syndicates, organised crime families, terrorist organisations, politically connected individuals, and law enforcement officers.
Witness M says giving evidence in public could jeopardise the person’s safety, as well as that of the family, and negatively affect the reputation of the person’s business.
The commission’s Chairperson retired Judge Mbuyiseli Madlanga delivered this order.
“Yes, we’ve read the application- and we’re satisfied that it should be granted. But I propose, that rather than go through all the paragraphs of the order- I should just grant an order that says the application is granted.”
“Let’s adjourn … I’m sorry, I’m sorry … it will be announced [when the commission will resume with open sessions]. At this stage, we have no idea by when [in-camera session] will be done. So, I can’t announce that we will resume in open session on such and such a date at such and such a time. That will be announced by our spokesperson in due course.”
Below is today’s proceedings:
About the Author
