Date set for Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala to testify at Madlanga Commission

A date has been set for alleged crime figure Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala to give evidence at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. The commission chair told Matlala to be ready to testify on 15 July, after the accused joined proceedings virtually.

Why the delay was agreed

The hearing was postponed after the commission’s evidence leaders and Matlala’s lawyers agreed on terms for a short delay. Commission chair Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga instructed Matlala to submit a written statement, saying:

“Mr Matlala, you just must submit your statement tomorrow (Wednesday).”

Legal status and allegations

Matlala remains in custody and is facing two separate criminal matters, which include charges of attempted murder, fraud and corruption. Since the commission began hearings in September, his name has surfaced repeatedly in testimony alleging entrenched corruption and criminal influence within the South African Police Service and government structures.

Claims heard by the commission

• That Matlala bribed senior South African Police Service officers.
• That he used alleged influence to orchestrate arrests and obtained confidential police information.
• That he secured lucrative government tenders worth millions of rand.
• That he has links to senior African National Congress politicians and Cabinet ministers.

Role in the investigation

Commission leaders have described Matlala as a pivotal figure in efforts to expose alleged links between organised crime, law enforcement and political power. His testimony is expected to be one of the inquiry’s most significant pieces of evidence.

Pending matters and wider implications

Matlala’s appearance comes while he continues plea negotiations with the State over corruption charges, a process the commission noted could affect the timing and manner of his testimony. President Cyril Ramaphosa said he would consider extending the commission’s mandate if additional time is required, adding:

“I am very pleased with the work that is being done with the Madlanga Commission. It may well be that they need a little bit more time and I’ll listen to that request if it comes.”

The commission will reconvene for Matlala’s testimony on 15 July, when he has been instructed to appear prepared to begin giving evidence.