By: Bright Ntuli
The Congress of the People (COPE) has expressed deep concern over the killing, intimidation, and harassment of witnesses associated with testimony before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
This follows the murder of Marius van der Merwe, a witness who appeared before the commission last month who was shot and killed outside his home in Brakpan, Gauteng, on Friday evening. Police have opened a case of murder, and no arrests have yet been reported.
COPE’s spokesperson, Tom Mofokeng, says the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) must intensify its probe into allegations of irregular tender awards in the City of Ekurhuleni. He further insists that all individuals summoned to testify before the commission be placed under the state’s witness-protection programme, citing growing fears that whistle-blowers remain vulnerable to targeted attacks.
Mofokeng added that the safety of witnesses is essential to ensuring the commission’s credibility, noting that previous high-profile investigations in South Africa have been undermined by threats to those who come forward. Civil-society organisations have echoed these concerns, urging authorities to strengthen protection mechanisms and prioritise the prosecution of those responsible for intimidating witnesses.
The Madlanga Commission was established to investigate allegations of procurement irregularities and maladministration within the municipality. Its work is expected to continue in the coming months, with several senior officials, service providers, and political office-bearers still scheduled to appear.
