The Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg on Thursday, 5 February 2026, struck businessman and ANC member Suleiman Carrim’s urgent application from the roll. Judge Denise Fisher ruled that the matter lacked genuine urgency and amounted to an abuse of process.

Carrim had sought an interdict preventing the Madlanga Commission from compelling him to submit a statement or testify until it complied with what he described as principles of natural justice. The court disagreed, noting he had known since October 2025 that he would be required to account for his dealings but only approached the court at the eleventh hour.

Carrim Seeks Postponement as Testimony Date Arrives

Carrim was subpoenaed to appear before the commission on Friday, 6 February. As hearings resumed, his legal team indicated they would request a postponement. Lawyers told media they had not had sufficient time to peruse the evidence he is expected to address.

The commission welcomed the court judgment. Spokesperson Jeremy Michaels said it looked forward to Carrim taking the witness stand.

Carrim faces scrutiny over allegations he accepted R2.5-million for assisting Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala to secure payments on a R360-million SAPS contract that was later cancelled. He has also been linked to a R10-million investment in one of Matlala’s companies.

The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, chaired by retired Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, is investigating criminality, political interference and corruption in the South African Police Service and criminal justice system. It was established after explosive claims by KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

The commission delivered its interim report to President Cyril Ramaphosa on 17 December 2025 and continues hearings into phase two.