Political Killings Task Team Faces Legal Loopholes in Murder Cases
Lt-gen Mkhwanazi day two of Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. (News24)
by Mathipa Phishego
The Political Killings Task Team has highlighted ongoing challenges in prosecuting suspects accused of multiple murders, with legal loopholes allowing some individuals to repeatedly evade detention.
In a recent statement at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, the Task Team member who is Kwa-Zulu Natal Provincial commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi explained the difficulties. “A suspect can get four bails for four different serious murder cases. The judges grant bails only for witnesses to be killed, and the suspect will be arrested and released again on another bail,” he said.
Mkhwanazi’s comments underscore the frustration among law enforcement officials, who argue that current bail practices create a dangerous cycle. Suspects involved in politically motivated killings may repeatedly return to the community, increasing the risk of intimidation or harm to witnesses.
According to the Task Team, the ability for suspects to secure bail multiple times is particularly troubling in cases involving high-profile political murders. Arrests do not guarantee detention, as individuals may be released while awaiting trial, sometimes on separate charges.
“It is extremely difficult to build a strong case when the suspect is not consistently in custody,” Mkhwanazi added.
The comments have reignited discussions around the need for stricter bail laws in cases involving serious political crimes. Legal experts and civil society organizations have previously warned that repeated bail releases can undermine public confidence in the justice system and place witnesses at risk.
Despite the challenges, the Political Killings Task Team continues to investigate high-profile cases and coordinate with prosecutors to bring suspects to trial. Authorities stress the importance of protecting witnesses and ensuring that justice is served, while advocating for legislative reforms to close existing loopholes.
“Our goal is to ensure that those responsible for political violence are held accountable and that justice is not obstructed by procedural gaps,” said Mkhwanazi.
South Africa continues to confront politically motivated crimes. The Task Team’s work highlights both the complexity of the legal system and the urgent need for reforms that prevent suspects from exploiting bail provisions.
