South Africans have been expressing strong support and admiration for Advocate Mahlape Sello following her performance at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. Many citizens have praised her professionalism, legal expertise, and ability to lead evidence effectively during hearings into corruption and criminality in South Africa’s justice system.
The Madlanga Commission, officially called 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, the commission investigates claims that criminal syndicates and political actors have infiltrated South Africa’s police, intelligence, prosecution, and judicial systems. Its mandate is to uncover the truth, recommend prosecutions, disciplinary actions, and systemic reforms, and restore integrity to the justice system. The commission follows explosive claims by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lt General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
During the hearings, Sello has cross-examined several high-profile individuals, including alleged criminal 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 approach has earned widespread praise from legal experts and members of the public.
Many South Africans have taken to the social media platform X to express their admiration. 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. But we have horny leaders who choose their own sexual victims as part of this country’s leadership.” Another user added: “We South Africans need to sign a petition that we want Adv Mahlape Sello as the Head of NPA.” A third comment noted: “So unfortunate that brilliant people have no chance in the public service because of patronage and alliances. Do you know how many great leaders we have in the private sector who can do a brilliant job in public service? I am one of them but I will never even consider it.” ActionSA president Herman Mashaba also reportedly joined calls for Sello to lead the National Prosecuting Authority.
Sello is a highly experienced advocate, holding a Master of Arts and Law, and an LLB degree. She has been practising as an advocate since 2003 and is a member of the Johannesburg Society of Advocates. She is also a panellist with the Arbitration Foundation of Southern Africa and the China-Africa Joint Arbitration Centre.
Her experience in public and corporate service includes being a member of the South African Law Reform Commission from 2007 to 2011 and reappointed in 2013 to date. She has served on several boards, including Murray & Roberts Limited, where she was appointed to the board in 2009 and became chair in 2013. She has chaired the Advertising Industry Tribunal Appeal Committee of the Advertising Standards Authority of South Africa and was appointed to the Life Healthcare board in 2017 as lead independent non-executive director.
While many citizens have expressed hope that Sello could take on high-level positions in public service, including the Public Protector or head of the NPA, legal experts note that such appointments are governed by official procedures. Advocate Shamila Batohi, the current NPA head, is set to retire in January 2026. Interviews for the next NPA head are underway this week at Lynnwood Manor, Pretoria. The six shortlisted candidates include Advocates Nicolette Astraid Bell, Hermione Cronje, Andrea Johnson, Xolisile Khanyile, Adrian Mopp, and Menzi Simelane.
Despite this, Sello’s performance has sparked national discussion about the quality of leadership in South Africa’s justice system and the role that private-sector leaders could play in public institutions. Her meticulous questioning, knowledge of the law, and calm yet firm approach during hearings have impressed many observers, who say her skills are needed to restore confidence in the country’s legal system.
As the Madlanga Commission continues its work, public attention remains focused on Sello’s contributions, with many hoping her work will inspire reforms and strengthen accountability in South Africa’s criminal justice system.
