CORRECTION: On 27 October 2026, the Mail & Guardian published a story titled "Ramaphosa's former adviser summoned to Madlanga commission". The article stated that Bejani Chauke had been served with a Rule or Regulation 10(6) notice issued on 27 October 2026, or hadbeen summoned to appear before the Commission, and was expectedto respond within ten days. Those statements were incorrect.
The Mail & Guardian retracts the incorrect statement and apologises to Chauke.
The Mail & Guardian has published a corrected version of the article below. A media statement by Bejani Chauke has also been published at the bottom of the article.
Bejani Chauke, a current ANC National Executive Committee member and former political adviser to President Cyril Ramaphosa, previously answered a Regulation 10(6) notice from the Madlanga commission of inquiry.
The notice, issued on 21 August 2026, required Chauke to explain his relationship with the late Mpumalanga taxi boss Jotham “King Mswazi” Msibi and their extensive WhatsApp exchanges. Chauke provided a sworn answer that was received by the commission on 28 August 2026.
The commission is expected to scrutinise messages between Chauke and Msibi dating back to 2022 and 2023, when Chauke served as Ramaphosa's political adviser.
His name emerged during the commission's investigation into Msibi's cellphone records, which revealed links between the taxi boss, police officers and high-profile officials.
The commission is examining leaked messages from Msibi's phone that allegedly contain discussions about state security, confidential presidential briefings, senior crime intelligence officials and substantial financial gains.
Evidence presented to the inquiry suggests the exchanges may point to an influential network operating behind the scenes and outside formal state structures, with alleged links to governance, intelligence and government tenders.
Chauke's name was also raised during testimony by former Hawks head Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya. Lebeya told the commission that forensic investigator Paul O'Sullivan had contacted him alongside Chauke to request updates on the high-profile Phala Phala investigation.
Chauke complied with the initial notice and remains willing to assist the Commission if any further legitimate request is made.
Media Statement by Bejani Chauke:
"I note the reports of 27 October 2026. Those reports contained inconsistencies. The Commission has confirmed in writing that only one Regulation 10(6) notice was issued to me, dated 21 August 2026, and that my sworn answer was received on 28 August 2026. My statement is on record with the Commission. I have not been summoned to appear. I complied with the notice and remain willing to assist the Commission if any further legitimate request is made. The fact that a commission asks questions, and that those questions are answered, does not mean that wrongdoing is suspected or that any adverse finding has been made."