South Africa extends Madlanga Commission deadline to January 2027

President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended the deadline for the Madlanga Commission to submit its final report to January 25, 2027. The commission, which investigates allegations of political interference and corruption within the criminal justice system, was originally expected to conclude by November 16. The extension is intended to allow the inquiry to process additional evidence and hear testimony from various experts.

During recent proceedings, Correctional Services Commissioner Thobakgale informed the commission regarding significant contraband smuggling within prisons. Evidence presented indicated that guards were involved in smuggling over 100,000 cellphones, alongside large quantities of drugs, sharpened objects, and cash into correctional facilities.

Other domestic developments in South Africa include new government guidelines for retail shelf pricing and product labeling to ensure consumer transparency, as well as reports of a rising mpox outbreak requiring public vigilance.