Central Figure in South African Corruption Inquiry
Vusimusi "Cat" Matlala, a businessman with a controversial past, has become a focal point in South Africa's ongoing investigation into police corruption. The 49-year-old faces accusations of using lavish gifts and loans to influence police officials and secure contracts. Despite being in police custody due to a separate case, Matlala is set to provide testimony to a commission led by retired judge Mbuyiseli Madlanga.
Background and Allegations
The probe, known as the Madlanga Commission, has been ongoing for ten months and has captivated the nation. Matlala, known for his high-end fashion sense, was previously involved in a parliamentary corruption inquiry where he denied knowing senior police officers personally. While he admitted to making donations to the African National Congress (ANC), he refuted corruption allegations and denied involvement in a purported drug cartel.
Matlala's public notoriety began three years ago when his name surfaced in connection with alleged tender irregularities at a state hospital, though he denied involvement. His early life, as shared with parliament, was marked by hardship. Raised by a single mother who later disappeared, he described himself as a "street kid" who had to fend for himself. He reunited with his mother in 2002, shortly before her death.
Legal Troubles and Business Ventures
After leaving school, Matlala engaged in informal business activities, leading to various legal issues. In 2001, he was convicted for possession of stolen goods and has faced multiple arrests for crimes such as robbery and assault, with charges often being dropped. He claims his nickname "Cat" reflects his large family, not an ability to escape legal trouble.
In 2017, Matlala claims to have turned his life around by starting a formal business providing security services, later expanding into healthcare. This shift led to lucrative contracts, including those with the police, despite his lack of experience in healthcare.
Corruption Claims and Relationships
Recent testimony at the Madlanga Commission has spotlighted Matlala's alleged close ties with senior police officers, including the suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and his predecessor Bheki Cele. Matlala has been accused of providing financial support for political campaigns, which Mchunu denies. Cele, who admitted to knowing Matlala, denies receiving any money from him.
Matlala's dealings with suspended deputy police chief Maj-Gen Shadrack Sibiya have also been scrutinized. Despite both men denying a close relationship, testimony suggests otherwise. Allegations include Sibiya receiving impalas from Matlala around the time a police contract was awarded. Sibiya denies receiving anything from Matlala.
Romantic Entanglements and Further Accusations
Brig Rachel Matjeng, involved in awarding a controversial police contract to Matlala, admitted to an on-off romantic relationship with him. Her testimony included claims of receiving lavish gifts. Meanwhile, Maj-Gen Richard Shibiri, responsible for organized crime investigations, acknowledged a personal loan from Matlala, insisting it was repaid.
Matlala's name has also been linked to allegations in Ekurhuleni, where it's claimed that a former acting police chief facilitated illegal modifications to his personal vehicles. The ex-official acknowledged receiving money from Matlala, referring to him as a "blood brother."
The revelations from the Madlanga Commission have raised questions about how such alleged corruption could occur. As the inquiry continues, many South Africans hope Matlala's testimony will shed light on the situation.
Source: Original Article
