NCC MP Fadiel Adams Denies State Capture 2.0 Claims at Madlanga Commission

• NCC MP Fadiel Adams appeared before the Madlanga Commission in Pretoria to address allegations made by KZN Police Commissioner Mkhwanazi
• Adams rejected claims that he was involved in dismantling effective police units, demanding that evidence be produced for such serious allegations
• The MP also took issue with Mkhwanazi's suggestion that he visit Pollsmoor Prison, calling the remark deeply concerning from a senior officer

PRETORIA — National Coloured Congress Member of Parliament Fadiel Adams took the stand at the Madlanga Commission in Pretoria on 19 August 2026, pushing back strongly against a series of allegations levelled against him by KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

Adams flatly denied accusations that he was part of what Mkhwanazi described as "State Capture 2.0" or that he harboured any intent to undermine functional police units. He told the commission that allegations of this nature, which he characterised as potentially defamatory, could not stand without supporting evidence being placed before the inquiry.

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Adams rejects Mkhwanazi's Pollsmoor remark

One of the more pointed exchanges centred on Mkhwanazi's suggestion that Adams should visit Pollsmoor Prison "to learn something." Adams told the commission the comment was deeply troubling, particularly coming from an officer of Mkhwanazi's seniority. He argued that it reflected an attitude of operating above the rule of law and making statements without restraint or accountability, conduct he described as incompatible with the discipline expected of a senior South African Police Service officer.

Dispute over SAPS complaints

Adams also addressed Mkhwanazi's characterisation of the complaints he had submitted to SAPS. Mkhwanazi had previously informed the commission that those complaints lacked substantive criminal elements and ventured into internal police procedures that fell outside the MP's jurisdiction. Adams denied both assertions before the commission, maintaining that his conduct had been appropriate throughout. The Madlanga Commission continues to hear testimony from various witnesses as it examines matters relating to senior police leadership and conduct within the SAPS.

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Fadiel Adams could face perjury charge: Mzansi debates

In a related article, Briefly News reported on Fadiel Adams' admission of lying during his testimony at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, which has ignited discussions on potential perjury charges. As South Africans dissect his statements, many raise the pressing question: will Adams face legal consequences for his actions, or can he navigate the fallout from his contradictory claims?

Source: Briefly News