Vusimuzi Matlala Set to Face the Madlanga Commission in Two Days of Testimony

Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala is scheduled to take the stand when the Madlanga Commission resumes public hearings on 9 November, with his testimony expected to continue the following day. The commission is examining alleged corruption, political interference and criminality within South Africa’s criminal justice system. Commission spokesperson Jeremy Michaels said Matlala is among several high-profile witnesses due to appear. Other people expected to testify in the coming weeks include Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and Lieutenant-Generals Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi and Dumisani Khumalo. The commission says some recent evidence was heard in camera because it involved confidential material or ongoing investigations. Matlala has been at the centre of attention after a leaked draft affidavit, reportedly prepared while he was in custody as part of a proposed plea and sentence agreement with the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption and the National Prosecuting Authority. The affidavit contains allegations of cash payments, tender manipulation and interference involving senior officials and political figures. Those claims remain allegations; the article does not establish that they have been proven. Among the claims attributed to Matlala are payments to former senior police official Shadrack Sibiya and former Police Minister Bheki Cele, as well as payments allegedly linked to tender decisions. The draft also alleges that financial statements were manipulated and that mobile medical units were used to make a company appear to meet tender requirements. It further describes alleged pressure surrounding Matlala’s evidence to Parliament’s ad hoc committee, including threats to his family and missing cellphone communications. The commission is entering what it describes as a critical phase of its work. It has held a seminar to prepare for drafting its final report, which is due to be delivered to President Cyril Ramaphosa by 25 January 2027. The commission has also said it is no longer accepting new submissions, although information relevant to matters already under investigation may still be considered.