The Madlanga Commission has postponed North West businessman Suliman Carrim’s testimony to 24 July 2026, following repeated delays attributed to his reported ill health and ordering disclosure of his recent movements and medical treatment details, as well as the subpoenaing of his doctors, after he sought a private hearing on his postponement application citing confidentiality concerns around his health and personal affairs.

Commission Seeks Medical Verification And Movement Details

Carrim, who has previously postponed his testimony multiple times since April 2026 amid claims of deteriorating health and a suspected heart attack, faces scrutiny after being allegedly seen shopping at a Woolworths in the Western Cape shortly after submitting a sick note to the commission. On 19 July 2026, the commission ordered Carrim to provide full details of his whereabouts and medical care during the period in question.

Commission authorities also moved to subpoena Carrim’s treating doctors and obtain medical records to assess the legitimacy of his health-related absences. Adv. Matthew Chaskalson SC, for the commission, stated, “The commission only received the postponement application at 3.30 this morning, and the postponement application raises substantial, non-frivolous issues to which we need to respond.”

Legal Risks And Delay Concerns Amid In-Camera Hearing Request

Carrim’s lawyer, Adv. Kameel Premhid, has maintained that his client remains hospitalised, warning against harmful speculation, and has applied for his client’s arguments to be heard in-camera to avoid public disclosure of sensitive health and family security details. “My client is in the hospital,” Premhid told the commission, disputing unverified allegations about Carrim’s activities.

The commission warned in June that Carrim could face prosecution if he failed to testify or refused a medical examination by a designated specialist. These repeated delays and the push for closed proceedings have raised concerns of obstruction and transparency at a time when the commission’s mandate includes the investigation of high-profile corruption allegations.

The Madlanga Commission will receive affidavits and written arguments before ruling on Carrim’s in-camera request and deciding next steps in its inquiry.