Culture Craze
Sizwe Dhlomo Reacts After Cat Matlala Explains the Story Behind His Nickname
When a nickname becomes a national talking point
South Africans are used to colourful politics, yet every now and then a moment comes along that stops the country mid-scroll. That happened when Vusimuzi Matlala, better known to the public as Cat, took the stand before a parliamentary committee and calmly explained where his nickname comes from. People expected something dramatic or maybe even humorous. What they got instead was a straight-faced declaration that he calls himself Cat because he has nine children. In his words, nine children mean nine lives.
The simplicity of the answer created a sudden spark online. It was unexpected enough to feel almost surreal, especially since it was said during a serious parliamentary session. Before long, the clip was circulating on social media, where disbelief, jokes, and questions began piling up. Many found the nickname logic amusing. Others wondered whether the explanation showed a lack of awareness, considering that Matlala is currently facing serious allegations.
Sizwe Dhlomo steps into the conversation
Among the thousands watching the drama unfold was broadcaster Sizwe Dhlomo, whose voice often shapes public debate in moments like these. Never one to shrink away from giving a clear view, Dhlomo’s reaction added fuel to the already lively discussion. His commentary made people pause and look at the moment in a wider context. It was not only about a nickname. It was about what public figures choose to say in spaces where accountability matters.
On social media, people echoed similar thoughts. How could such a casual explanation be offered during a parliamentary appearance? Why take such a light tone at a time when the country is already tense about leadership, honesty, and responsibility? Supporters countered that a nickname is personal and nobody should expect a dramatic backstory. Yet the debate kept growing, proving that even small details can become symbolic in South Africa’s political climate.
“I'm married I've got nine children with my wife, I support all of my children and that's it” Vusimuzi Cat Matlala
“On a lighter note your nickname cat, is that because you got nine children or nine lives” Ad Hoc Committee SC Norman Arendse
“9 Children” Cat Matlala pic.twitter.com/t2jGZU0Qqk
— News Live SA (@newslivesa) November 26, 2025
— Sizwe Dhlomo (@SizweDhlomo) November 26, 2025
A nickname that revealed something bigger
In a country where public trust is fragile, nothing exists in isolation. A simple name can be turned into a cultural talking point that reveals the mood of the nation. South Africans have seen several public figures step into courtrooms and inquiries over the past year. With that in mind, Matlala’s explanation felt strangely out of place to many people. It became a moment that blended humour with unease, prompting questions about image and integrity.
The reaction also showed how South Africans process public life. It is not only about legal proceedings. It is about how leaders show up, how they communicate, and the tone they bring into serious spaces. What was meant to be a personal detail suddenly became a marker of character. That is why Dhlomo’s response carried weight. It captured the feeling many had that this was not only quirky. It spoke to the pressure on public figures to act with awareness in every setting.
His kids watching him like pic.twitter.com/zKL8CWs9RI
Jabstar Dingswayo (@Jabstar_86) November 26, 2025
Why this moment will be remembered
Whether people laughed or cringed, one thing was clear. The nickname story touched a nerve because it said something larger about South Africa in 2025. The country wants leaders who respect the spaces they enter. It wants seriousness where seriousness is due. When Matlala explained his name, intentionally or not, he reminded people how quickly small moments can turn into national conversations.
As Matlala’s legal matters continue, this particular moment is likely to linger. Not because of the courtroom drama but because of what it revealed about the expectations South Africans now have for public figures. In a world where identity shapes trust, a nickname is never just a nickname.
Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter, TikT
For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com
Source: Bona Magazine
Featured Image: Cape Argus
