Advocate Matthew Chaskalson SC Appointed Chief Evidence Leader of the Madlanga Commission

Adv Chackalson will take a lead at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. (Crime Watch RSA/via X)

by Mathipa Phishego

The Madlanga Commission has appointed Advocate Matthew Chaskalson SC as its new Chief Evidence Leader, following the departure of Advocate Terry Motau SC. The move comes at a critical moment in the inquiry’s proceedings, as the Commission continues its work probing political killings and related matters of national concern.

Chaskalson, one of South Africa’s most respected senior counsel, will now take charge of steering the evidentiary process that underpins the Commission’s work. Known for his expertise in constitutional and public law, he has built a reputation for meticulous preparation and a principled approach to legal proceedings.

In a statement, the Commission reaffirmed its determination to fulfil its mandate despite the leadership change, “the Commission remains firmly committed to fulfilling its mandate, which is of critical importance to upholding the rule of law in our country. The Commission will not be distracted.”

Chaskalson, the son of the late Chief Justice Arthur Chaskalson, has acted in numerous landmark cases before the Constitutional Court and has long been associated with defending democratic principles. His appointment has been widely welcomed in legal circles, where many believe his credibility and expertise will strengthen the Commission’s standing.

Matthew Chaskalson brings not only technical legal skill but also a deep understanding of the constitutional values that the Commission’s work seeks to uphold. The Madlanga Commission, chaired by Justice Madlanga, was established to investigate the surge of political killings that have shaken South Africa, particularly in provinces such as KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga.

The inquiry is seen as vital to restoring public confidence in the state’s ability to protect political leaders, activists, and ordinary citizens from targeted violence. With the Commission already under pressure to deliver credible findings, Chaskalson’s role as Chief Evidence Leader will be central in shaping how testimony is tested and how evidence is presented.

His appointment is expected to ensure continuity while also adding fresh energy to the proceedings. The Commission’s statement emphasised that, regardless of leadership changes or external pressures, its mission remains unchanged to uncover the truth, establish accountability, and strengthen the rule of law in South Africa.