The taxi industry figure was expected to testify before the commission, but his lawyers have asked for a postponement while a separate High Court application challenges his subpoena and cellphone evidence.
23 September 2026 | 18:10
PRETORIA — Taxi industry figure Oupa “Bafana” Sindane was expected to take the stand before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry on Wednesday.
Instead, his legal team appeared before the commission seeking a postponement while Sindane pursues an urgent High Court application.
Sindane is also a co-accused, alongside taxi boss Joe “Ferrari” Sibanyoni, in a separate Kwaggafontein case involving allegations of money laundering and extortion. (SABC News)
Sindane turns to the High Court
Sindane has approached the North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria in an attempt to block the subpoena compelling him to appear before the commission.
He is also seeking to prevent the commission from using information contained on his cellphone, which was seized in connection with the separate criminal investigation.
His lawyers want the matter reviewed before the commission relies on the material.
What was Sindane expected to tell the commission?
The commission expects Sindane’s testimony to deal with several issues.
These include financial records, stokvel dealings, alleged payments received from Sibanyoni and text messages exchanged between the two men.
The evidence is potentially important because the commission is investigating allegations involving criminal networks, policing and possible corruption.
Medical certificate presented
Sindane was not present at the commission on Wednesday.
His lawyer, Advocate Thabani Masuku, presented a medical certificate indicating that Sindane was unwell.
Masuku also argued that Sindane’s claim of spiritual seclusion remained relevant.
“Spiritual seclusion is very important for many people,” Masuku told the commission. (SABC News)
He argued that Sindane should not be penalised for not revealing private details about the practice.
Commission pushes back on delays
Evidence leader Advocate Matthew Chaskalson did not object to Sindane’s absence on medical grounds but argued that the commission should use the time to place documentary evidence on record.
He also raised concerns about the effect of further delays.
Chaskalson warned that the commission’s programme was already tight.
“And our programme is tight,” he told the inquiry, warning that repeated delays could prevent the commission from completing its work. (SABC News)
Decision expected Friday
The commission is expected to hand down its ruling on Sindane’s postponement application on Friday.
That decision will determine whether the commission can proceed with the next stage of Sindane’s testimony or whether the matter must wait for developments in the court proceedings.
The legal dispute has therefore become an important procedural issue for the commission.
Why the case matters
The Madlanga Commission has a fixed mandate and timetable.
Every postponed witness can affect the schedule for witnesses who are still expected to appear.
At the same time, Sindane’s lawyers argue that their client’s legal rights must be protected and that the court challenge should be dealt with before the commission relies on disputed material.
The commission will therefore have to balance its timetable with the pending legal issues.
Next development
Friday: Ruling expected on Sindane’s postponement application.
Sindane’s testimony remains pending.
Leave a Reply