Mahlape Sello earns praise for work at Madlanga Commission

Advocate Mahlape Sello has been receiving widespread support from South Africans after showcasing her legal skills and professionalism at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. South Africans have praised her meticulous approach to leading evidence and her ability to handle complex testimony during hearings into corruption and criminality in South Africa’s justice system.

The Madlanga Commission, officially the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference, and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System, was established in 2025 by President Cyril Ramaphosa. Chaired by retired Deputy Chief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, it investigates allegations that criminal syndicates and political actors have infiltrated South Africa’s police, intelligence, prosecution, and judicial systems. The commission aims to recommend prosecutions, disciplinary action, and reforms to restore integrity to the justice system.

Sello has cross-examined high-profile individuals including alleged kingpin Vusimusi “Cat” Matlala, retired City of Ekurhuleni City Manager Imogen Mashazi, suspended EMPD acting head Brigadier Julius Mkhanazi, and suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu. Her performance has drawn praise across social media platforms.

On platform X, one user wrote: “When I listen to her arguing, she fills my cup of knowledge. These are the women who deserve to lead our societies and country.” Another said: “We South Africans need to sign a petition that we want Adv Mahlape Sello as the Head of NPA.” ActionSA president Herman Mashaba has also reportedly voiced support for Sello to take on the National Prosecuting Authority leadership.

Sello is an experienced advocate with a Master of Arts and Law and an LLB. She has practised law since 2003 and is a member of the Johannesburg Society of Advocates. She serves as a panellist with the Arbitration Foundation of Southern Africa and the China-Africa Joint Arbitration Centre. She has been a member of the South African Law Reform Commission since 2007 and holds leadership positions on several corporate boards, including Murray & Roberts Limited and Life Healthcare.

Although there is growing public support for Sello to take on senior public roles such as the NPA or Public Protector, the official process for appointing the next NPA head is already underway. Advocate Shamila Batohi is set to retire in January 2026. Interviews to select her successor are being held this week at Lynnwood Manor, Pretoria, with six shortlisted candidates: Advocates Nicolette Astraid Bell, Hermione Cronje, Andrea Johnson, Xolisile Khanyile, Adrian Mopp, and Menzi Simelane.

Sello’s work at the commission has reignited debate on the quality of leadership in South Africa’s justice system and highlighted the expertise available in both the public and private sectors. Observers say her thorough questioning and command of the law demonstrate the level of skill needed to restore public confidence in legal institutions.