President Cyril Ramaphosa says the interim report of the Madlanga Commission will remain confidential to safeguard witnesses and protect ongoing investigations.
Addressing the National Assembly of South Africa on Thursday, Ramaphosa explained that the decision not to release the report publicly was taken because it contains sensitive information and the commission’s work is still underway.
The president said he received the interim report in December and that it already includes recommendations based on evidence gathered during the inquiry so far.
“The establishment of the Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the criminal justice system is indeed a matter of public interest,” Ramaphosa told Members of Parliament.
According to the president, the report contains recommendations related to matters where there is prima facie evidence of wrongdoing.
While some disciplinary processes have already begun within certain departments following the commission’s findings, Ramaphosa cautioned that releasing the report prematurely could compromise ongoing investigations.
“Beyond the referrals and recommendations that I have made public, it would be unfair to witnesses whose testimony is not complete or individuals against whom the commission has not yet made any findings to publicise the information at this stage,” he said.
Ramaphosa also expressed concern about the safety of witnesses, noting that some individuals who have appeared before the commission have already received threats.
He assured Parliament that the full findings would eventually be made public once the commission has completed its work.
“Given the short time frame in which the commission is expected to complete its work, I will make all the reports public once the commission has submitted its final report,” Ramaphosa said.