Matlala invokes privilege and denies senior police ties at Madlanga Commission

Businessman Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala invoked his right against self-incrimination and denied relationships with key political figures while testifying before the Madlanga Commission on Monday, August 17, 2026. His closely watched testimony, which followed a brief evacuation due to a fire alarm, centered on his alleged links to senior police officials and a controversial multi-million rand police healthcare contract.

Matlala, who faces separate criminal charges including attempted murder and money laundering, repeatedly declined to answer detailed questions about the R360 million Medicare24 tender awarded to his company by the South African Police Service (SAPS). He stated that because he is an accused in an ongoing criminal case related to the contract, he could not provide evidence that might be self-incriminating. He emphasized his right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The businessman was unequivocal in denying any personal connection to suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu. Matlala told the commission he has never met Mchunu, had no interactions with him, and has never been at any gathering where the minister was present. He also denied using intermediaries to...