Suliman Carrim arrested for failing to appear before Madlanga Commission

Former ANC treasurer and North West businessman Suliman Carrim was arrested at OR Tambo International Airport on October 15, 2026, moments before he was scheduled to board an international flight. The arrest follows his repeated failure to appear before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, despite being directed to provide testimony.

Carrim appeared before the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court facing charges for contravening the Commissions Act. His legal counsel argued that Carrim suffers from a heart condition that has previously required hospitalization, noting that the stress of the proceedings has impacted his health. While the defense suggested Carrim intended to travel for a pilgrimage, the state requested a postponement to complete bail investigations. Carrim will remain in custody at the Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Facility in Pretoria until his case is heard again on Monday.

In addition to the commission proceedings, the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has been authorized by President Cyril Ramaphosa to investigate multimillion-rand transport tenders awarded by the North West government to companies linked to Carrim.