The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry has served former President Cyril Ramaphosa adviser Bejani Chauke with a notice requiring him to explain WhatsApp communications between himself and the late taxi boss Jotham “King Mswazi” Msibi.
The commission wants Chauke to clarify the nature of his communications with Msibi, who died in January 2024.
Chauke was reportedly served with a notice under Rule 10.6, giving him 10 days to respond to questions raised by the commission about the exchanges, which date back to 2022 and 2023.
At the time, Chauke was serving as a political adviser to Ramaphosa.
Msibi’s WhatsApp messages under scrutiny
The commission has been examining material recovered from Msibi’s cellphone as part of its broader investigation into alleged criminal networks and possible links between businesspeople, public officials and members of law enforcement.
In previous hearings, evidence leaders presented WhatsApp messages allegedly showing discussions involving government-related contracts, surveillance technology and business dealings.
The material has also raised questions about Msibi’s connections with various influential figures. However, the commission has emphasised that allegations emerging from the messages must be examined carefully and are not, by themselves, proof of wrongdoing.
Chauke’s notice signals that the commission is seeking further information about his own communications with the late taxi boss.
Commission seeks clarification
The notice requires Chauke to provide an explanation regarding the communications and the relationship between the two men. His response is expected to assist the commission in assessing the issues raised by the messages.
The commission is investigating allegations of corruption, criminality and interference within South Africa’s criminal justice system.
No findings of wrongdoing against Chauke have been established in relation to the WhatsApp communications. His response to the commission’s questions is expected to provide further clarity.
