Pretoria – Vusimuzi Cat Matlala, a murder suspect currently detained at Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Services, is poised to testify before the ad hoc committee investigating serious allegations of police infiltration and corruption within South Africa’s justice system. The committee has arranged to visit Kgosi Mampuru between 26 and 28 November to hear Matlala’s testimony directly from the prison, marking an unusual step in the parliamentary inquiry.
Matlala, who is awaiting trial on multiple charges including conspiracy to commit murder, has become a central figure in the investigation following his implication in testimonies before the Madlanga Commission and other inquiries by prominent police officials. The committee hopes his testimony will shed light on the extent of corruption and infiltration within the police force.
The controversial businessman’s name has also been linked to questionable contracts at Tembisa Hospital. Furthermore, he stands accused of masterminding the failed assassination of his former partner, socialite Tebogo Thobejane, in October 2023 – an accusation Matlala vehemently denies.
KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi accused Matlala, alongside suspended police Minister Senzo Mchunu, and senior police officials, of criminal infiltration, corruption, and political interference back in July. These accusations have added fuel to the fire, prompting the parliamentary committee to delve deeper into the allegations.
During a meeting on Monday, the committee reviewed its interim progress report, updated outstanding consultations, and discussed its future programme. A key focus of the meeting was finalising arrangements with prison authorities to facilitate Matlala’s testimony.
Rudzani Mphilo, Parliament’s legal representative, provided a detailed briefing on the logistical and security measures being put in place for the committee’s visit to Kgosi Mampuru.
“The facility is adequately equipped to host the sessions, with sufficient seating, tables, and catering space that comply with our requirements. Internet connectivity is stable, and technical assistance will be provided as needed,” Mphilo assured the committee.
He further added that security protocols would be closely coordinated with the correctional services, Gauteng security cluster, and police personnel stationed at the facility to ensure smooth and secure proceedings. Mphilo also noted that media and public access would be carefully managed to maintain order and confidentiality where necessary.
Given the extensive list of witnesses presented, ANC Chief Whip Mdumiseni Ntuli urged committee members to consider streamlining the process. He suggested exploring alternative methods, such as affidavit submissions, for some witnesses to manage time constraints effectively.
“Given the extensive list of witnesses presented, I propose that we review and possibly reduce the number of individuals required to appear before us in person,” Ntuli stated. “We might consider alternative methods, such as affidavit submissions for some, to maintain the intensity and focus of our work while managing time constraints.”
Ntuli also acknowledged the significant public interest in the committee’s work but cautioned against potential fatigue, emphasising the need for a focused and efficient approach. “Our work attracts significant public interest, but we must also be mindful of potential fatigue,” he said.
The committee anticipates testimony from several other key witnesses in the coming weeks. KZN Violence Monitor Mary de Haas, whose name surfaced during earlier hearings, is scheduled to testify on Monday next week. Cedric Nkabinde, Chief of Staff in the office of Mchunu, is scheduled to appear on Thursday and Friday. Additionally, Paul O’Sullivan and Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department Chief Julius Mkhwanazi are slated to testify on dates yet to be confirmed.
The committee’s ongoing inquiry represents a critical effort to restore public confidence in South Africa’s justice system. The allegations of police infiltration and corruption strike at the heart of law enforcement and threaten the very fabric of the country’s legal framework. The committee’s work is essential to addressing these issues and ensuring accountability. The decision to hear testimony from a murder suspect within the confines of a correctional facility underscores the seriousness with which the committee is approaching its mandate, signalling a commitment to uncovering the truth, regardless of where it may lead. As the inquiry progresses, the nation will be watching closely, hoping for meaningful reforms and a restoration of trust in the institutions tasked with upholding justice.
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