Background
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry was set up to look into corruption inside the South African Police Service (SAPS). Recently the commission wrote to Lt. Gen. Daphney Semakaleng Manamela, the suspended police commissioner of Mpumalanga, asking her to submit a detailed affidavit and any evidence that backs up the claims she made in public.
The Allegations
On April 19, 2026 Manamela gave a briefing in which she said:
- The suspended Commissioner General of the National Police, Fannie Masemola, ignored her warnings about widespread corruption in Mpumalanga.
- Masemola yielded to a destructive propaganda campaign that was meant to undermine her, which led to her second suspension.
- Her removal was not because of any personal misconduct but because she was trying to stop police officers from teaming up with criminal groups.
- She claims a bribe of R5 million was involved in the case.
- Political interference allegedly tainted investigations into illegal mining, kidnappings, and political assassinations.
- A provincial task force probing serious crimes was disbanded after her suspension, putting those cases at risk.
- She also alleged interference in the murder investigation of Hillary Gardee, suggesting the case was deliberately weakened.
Masemola’s Response
Fannie Masemola denied any wrongdoing. She urged Manamela to hand over all evidence to the commission so the facts can be examined properly.
Commission’s Actions
Jeremy Michaels, spokesperson for the Madlanga Commission, stressed that the inquiry treats every allegation seriously. He said:
“The Commission considers all such allegations within the scope of its terms of reference, which focuses on crime, political interference, and corruption in the criminal justice system.”
The commission also reached out to the legal representatives of the Gardee family, informing them that they had requested an affidavit from Manamela regarding the Gardee murder case. Michaels added that no further details would be released at this stage.
Gardee Family Involvement
By contacting the Gardee family’s lawyers, the commission shows it is taking the alleged interference in Hillary Gardee’s case seriously. The family’s representatives have been notified of the request for Manamela’s affidavit, but the commission has not disclosed any additional information.
Conclusion
The Madlanga Commission’s request for a detailed affidavit from Lt. Gen. Daphney Semakaleng Manamela marks a key step in uncovering whether corruption, political meddling, or misconduct played a role in the events she described. As the inquiry continues, both Manamela’s claims and Masemola’s denials will be weighed against any evidence presented. The involvement of the Gardee family’s legal team highlights the commission’s commitment to examining all angles, especially those that affect high‑profile criminal cases. Until more information is made public, the situation remains a developing story that underscores the importance of transparency and accountability within South Africa’s police service.
