By Staff Reporter
FORDSBURG — In a dramatic appearance at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry on Wednesday, a heavily guarded Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala was granted one final opportunity to testify on 1 September.
Matlala, a central figure in the commission’s probe into a R228 million police wellness tender, arrived in leg irons and handcuffs—a stark contrast to his usual luxury image.
The businessman’s lawyer, Advocate Anneline van den Heever, argued that forcing him to testify now could violate his Section 35 constitutional right against self-incrimination, especially as he still faces a pending criminal trial. She insisted his team needs time to review documents from his recently collapsed plea negotiations with the state.
However, Commission Chairperson Judge Mbuyiseli Madlanga and Commissioner Sesi Baloyi questioned the delay, pointing out that many of the commission’s questions are entirely separate from his criminal trial. Evidence leader Mahlape Sello also expressed deep frustration with the “constantly shifting” delays.
To avoid further legal blockages, the commission agreed to a final postponement. Under the ruling, Matlala must submit a sworn affidavit by 29 July before taking the stand on 1 September.
In the meantime, Matlala remains in custody and is expected back in the criminal court on 20 July. The Madlanga Commission’s final report is now due to President Cyril Ramaphosa on 16 November.
