North West businessman Brown Mogotsi has formally written to the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, raising concerns about the conduct of its chief evidence leader, Advocate Matthew Chaskalson, and requesting that he recuse himself from the proceedings.
Mogotsi, who is a witness before the commission, is scheduled to return to the stand on 15 May to continue his testimony. His complaint introduces a new development in the inquiry, which is probing allegations linked to police corruption and interference.
Commission chairperson Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga has directed Mogotsi’s legal team to file a formal recusal application by the close of business on Wednesday.
Advocate Chaskalson is expected to respond to the application on 6 May, after which Mogotsi’s legal team will submit a replying affidavit on 11 May. The matter is likely to be addressed before Mogotsi resumes his testimony later in the month.
In a related development, it is understood that Suliman Carrim may not appear before the commission this week, citing health concerns.
The outcome of the recusal application could have implications for the direction and proceedings of the commission as it continues to hear evidence.
