Public Interest SA concerned about a “trend” of Madlanga Commission witnesses falling sick shortly before testifying

# Public Interest SA says the repeated failure of key witnesses to appear before the Madlanga Commission, often citing last-minute medical emergencies, is becoming a serious public concern. Investigating Directorate Against Corruption head, Andrea Johnson, was due to testify before the commission yesterday, but failed to appear after being hospitalised. She joins a list of witnesses who had fallen sick shortly before testifying. Public Interest SA says that where circumstances warrant, the commission should conduct independent medical verification to ensure that postponements are genuine and do not erode public confidence.