WATCH | Feroz Khan skips Madlanga Commission again, sends lawyers instead - IOL

This is an empty chair which expelled SAPS major-general Feroz Khan would have sat in to testify at the Madlanga Commission on Monday but he did not pitch, again.

Former SAPS Major-General Feroz Khan was expected to finally enter the Madlanga Commission’s witness box on Monday, but once again he did not appear, leaving his lawyers to face the inquiry instead.

Khan’s legal team arrived at the commission, where his appearance had been scheduled after Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga postponed his evidence from September 1 to 28.

The chairperson had ruled that Khan could be excused only if an independent medical specialist confirmed that he was unable to testify.

The dispute over his health intensified after Khan’s lawyers previously cited a “medical impediment” but declined to disclose details.

The commission subsequently heard evidence concerning conflicting medical certificates.

His treating doctor said a certificate had been altered at the request of Khan’s son, including a change to the period Khan was booked off.

The evidence has become central to the commission’s efforts to establish whether his absence is medically justified.

The medical saga follows a violent shooting that nearly derailed his first scheduled appearance.

Khan was shot outside his Houghton home on June 28, days before he was due to testify, and was rushed to Milpark Hospital.

He suffered severe abdominal injuries, internal bleeding, spinal damage and kidney complications and underwent emergency surgery at Milpark Hospital.

He was later discharged for rehabilitation, although reports subsequently indicated another hospital admission.

The commission has already heard serious allegations involving Khan in his absence, including claims relating to procurement, alleged abuse of authority and his interactions with other figures under scrutiny.

Khan has not yet answered those allegations before the commission.

Meanwhile, on Friday, the commission's evidence leaders launched a bid to keep their key WhatsApp communications out of the public eye.