Vusimusi Matlala: A Key Player in South Africa's Corruption Inquiry
The ongoing inquiry into police corruption in South Africa has brought controversial businessman Vusimusi 'Cat' Matlala into the spotlight. Matlala, aged 49, faces accusations of using gifts, including impalas and weight-loss drugs, to secure police contracts and influence. His testimony, eagerly awaited by the public, is set to resume in September before the Madlanga Commission, led by retired Constitutional Court judge Mbuyiseli Madlanga.
Background and Early Life
Matlala's journey to becoming a central figure in this inquiry is intriguing. He first gained public attention three years ago due to alleged irregularities in state hospital tenders, which he denied involvement in. Born in 1976 under South Africa's apartheid regime, Matlala grew up in a township near Pretoria. Raised by a single mother who later disappeared, he described his youth as that of a 'street kid'.
After reuniting with his mother in 2002, Matlala discovered she had been a victim of sexual assault, attributed to myths surrounding albinism. Post-school, he ventured into informal business, which led to legal troubles, including a prison sentence in 2001 for possession of stolen goods. Despite numerous arrests for various crimes, Matlala was either acquitted or had charges dropped.
Corruption Allegations and Legal Challenges
Matlala's nickname 'Cat' was not due to resilience, but rather his large family, he explained, having nine children with his wife. However, his past caught up with him in May 2025 when he was arrested for attempted murder, a charge he denies, as does his wife, who has been granted bail. Matlala also faced corruption charges related to health services provided to the police, pleading guilty initially before retracting it as the plea deal collapsed.
Allegations of Political and Police Corruption
Since September, the Madlanga Commission has heard allegations of Matlala's corrupt ties with senior police officers. It was claimed that suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu indirectly received campaign funds from Matlala, which Mchunu denied. Matlala also alleged that former Police Minister Bheki Cele demanded a 'facilitation fee' and other favors.
Further scrutiny fell on Matlala's alleged relationship with suspended deputy police chief Maj-Gen Shadrack Sibiya. Both denied a close relationship, yet testimony suggested Matlala gifted Sibiya with 20 impalas, coinciding with a contract award. Brig Rachel Matjeng admitted to a romantic link with Matlala, leading to her dismissal.
Implications and Public Interest
Testimonies have unveiled a web of alleged corruption, including Matlala's connections to organized crime unit head Maj-Gen Richard Shibiri, who admitted to a loan from Matlala. Matlala’s reach extended to Ekurhuleni, where it was claimed he received unauthorized police vehicle equipment, allegations denied by suspended acting police chief Julius Mkhwanazi.
As the Madlanga Commission continues to unravel these revelations, South Africans remain keen to understand the extent of corruption within the police force. Matlala’s testimony in September is anticipated to shed light on these intricate dealings.
Source: Original Article
