Ramaphosa Condemns Killing of Van der Merwe, Vows Stronger Whistleblower Protection

President Ramaphosa condemned the murder as a direct assault on democracy, integrity, and the fight against corruption.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed profound shock and sorrow following the murder of Marius van der Merwe, a Brakpan-based private security industry professional and former official of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department. Van der Merwe, who had recently appeared before the Madlanga Commission, was shot multiple times and killed in front of his family outside his home on Friday evening, 5 December 2025.

In a statement from the Presidency, President Ramaphosa extended his deep condolences to Van der Merwe’s family, friends and colleagues, wishing them “strength for their recovery from the deadly trauma.” The President described the attack as a deeply disturbing act that shook the principles of justice and democratic accountability.

A Targeted Attack After Testimony

Van der Merwe had recently provided critical testimony before the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System—known widely as the Madlanga Commission—established by President Ramaphosa in July 2025.

The President suggested that the attack may have been motivated by Van der Merwe’s testimony, stating:

“They faced death in circumstances that suggest Van der Merwe’s brave testimony angered elements in our society who want to undermine the rule of law and the quest for truth.”

He said that such acts are intended to intimidate whistleblowers, derail accountability processes, and weaken national efforts to combat entrenched corruption.

A National Commitment to Protect Those Who Speak Out

President Ramaphosa condemned the murder as a direct assault on democracy, integrity, and the fight against corruption. He emphasised that the government would intensify measures to ensure the safety of:

• Whistleblowers

• Witnesses appearing before the Madlanga Commission

• Members involved in the commission’s investigative processes

“We will redouble our efforts to protect whistleblowers as they serve the nation with bravery in the face of criminal threats,” he said.

The President’s remarks align with growing public concern over the safety of individuals who expose wrongdoing—an issue that has come into sharper focus after a series of high-profile whistleblower killings in recent years.

Call for a Swift and Thorough Investigation

President Ramaphosa urged law enforcement agencies to conduct a comprehensive and urgent investigation into the murder.

“Law enforcement must ensure that the perpetrators face justice,” he said.

He stressed that South Africa must remain resolute in the battle against corruption and criminal networks seeking to obstruct justice and intimidate those who speak out.

A Nation Confronts a Critical Moment

The killing of Marius van der Merwe has raised pressing questions about the safety of witnesses participating in judicial inquiries and the broader battle to reform South Africa’s criminal justice system. As the Madlanga Commission proceeds with its mandate to uncover corruption, political interference, and organised criminal influence, the government’s promises to enhance protection mechanisms will be closely watched.

President Ramaphosa reaffirmed that no individual or group should be allowed to derail South Africa’s pursuit of transparency, accountability and the rule of law.