First chief evidence leader of the Commission
Held the role from the Commission's establishment through its opening hearings from 17 September 2025.
Former chief evidence leader · Madlanga Commission
Advocate Terry Motau SC
Chief evidence leader (September 2025) · Johannesburg
Former chief evidence leader
Terry Motau SC was appointed the Madlanga Commission's chief evidence leader at its establishment and served in the role through its opening hearings, which began on 17 September 2025.
He stepped down at the end of September 2025. The Commission confirmed his departure on 30 September and said he left on good terms, thanking him for the services rendered. Advocate Matthew Chaskalson SC was announced as his successor on 1 October 2025.
Speaking to News24 afterwards he said that "for me, nothing was working", and pointed to budgetary constraints and his concerns about shortfalls as reasons for leaving. The Department of Justice issued a statement on 2 October 2025 in which the Minister clarified remarks he had made.
This profile summarises publicly reported biographical and role information about a member of the Madlanga Commission. It is not a finding of the Commission, nor an allegation against any person. Soft or contested claims are attributed; unverified details are omitted.
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On the record
Notable matters & judgments
Resignation, 30 September 2025
The Commission confirmed his departure and said he left on good terms; Advocate Matthew Chaskalson SC was appointed in his place the following day.
Cited budget concerns
Told News24 that "for me, nothing was working", citing budgetary constraints and feared shortfalls.
Sources