Madlanga Commission orders criminal charges be laid against Suliman Carrim following latest no-show

The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry has officially signaled that its patience with North West businessman Suliman Carrim has reached an end. On Friday, 14 August 2026, the commission issued a formal order for criminal charges to be laid against him after his latest failure to appear for testimony.

Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, who chairs the inquiry, instructed the commission's secretary, Dr Nolitha Vukuza, to initiate the legal process. The judge made it clear that the commission had utilized every available resource to secure Carrim's presence before resorting to this legal escalation.

Medical Excuses Under Scrutiny

Carrim has been a missing fixture at the inquiry since March 2026. For months, he has consistently avoided taking the stand by citing various health complications as the reason for his continued absence.

However, these claims have been met with skepticism. Whistleblower reports and other evidence presented to the commission have cast doubt on the severity of his condition, suggesting that the medical excuses may be a tactic to evade questioning.

High-Stakes SAPS Contract Investigation

The inquiry is particularly interested in Carrim's alleged involvement in a R360 million SAPS health services contract. Investigators are also looking into his financial connections with high-profile individuals, including Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala.

By failing to appear, Carrim has stalled the investigation into these massive financial dealings. The move to file criminal charges marks a significant shift in the commission's strategy to hold key witnesses accountable.

As the legal proceedings move forward, the focus will turn to how law enforcement handles the commission's referral. This development serves as a warning to other subpoenaed individuals that non-compliance will have serious legal consequences.