Vusimusi Matlala: Central Figure in Corruption Inquiry
Vusimusi 'Cat' Matlala's name has become synonymous with South Africa's high-profile police corruption investigation. The 49-year-old businessman stands accused of using lavish gifts, such as impalas and personal loans, to secure police contracts and wield influence. Matlala, who has been in police custody for over a year due to a separate legal matter, was scheduled to testify before retired Constitutional Court judge Mbuyiseli Madlanga and his panel. However, after a brief appearance, it was decided that his formal testimony would commence in September.
The Inquiry's Progress
The Madlanga Commission, which has been ongoing for ten months, has captivated the nation, particularly as they anticipate Matlala's upcoming testimony. Previously, Matlala had appeared at a parliamentary inquiry, denying personal connections with senior police officials and refuting corruption allegations, despite admitting to making donations to the African National Congress (ANC). However, he has yet to address the broader accusations presented at the commission, including involvement in a purported drug trafficking cartel.
Background and Early Life
Matlala's rise to prominence began three years ago amidst allegations of tender irregularities at a state hospital, accusations he denied. His early life, as described in his parliamentary testimony, was challenging. Born in 1976 under apartheid South Africa, Matlala grew up in a township near Pretoria. Raised initially by a single mother, he described a period of his life where he had to fend for himself as a 'street kid' after his mother disappeared. They reunited in 2002 when she was terminally ill, and Matlala learned of the hardships she faced, including being sexually assaulted due to myths surrounding her albinism.
Legal Troubles and Business Ventures
After leaving school, Matlala engaged in informal businesses, leading to various legal issues. His criminal record includes a conviction for possession of stolen goods and arrests for multiple crimes, though he was either acquitted or had charges withdrawn. In 2017, he claimed to have turned his life around by registering a security services business, which he later expanded into healthcare, securing lucrative contracts despite lacking experience in the field.
Allegations and Denials
Since September, the Madlanga Commission has unveiled allegations of Matlala's corrupt ties with senior police officials, including the suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and his predecessor Bheki Cele. Matlala reportedly paid Cele a 'facilitation fee' after police returned confiscated firearms. Both Mchunu and Cele denied any wrongdoing, with Matlala admitting to parliament that while he knew Cele briefly, he never gave him money.
Relationships with Police Officials
Matlala's interactions with other police figures have also been scrutinized. Both Matlala and suspended deputy police chief Maj-Gen Shadrack Sibiya denied a close relationship, though testimonies suggest otherwise. Allegations include Sibiya receiving impalas from Matlala. Another officer, Maj-Gen Richard Shibiri, admitted to borrowing money from Matlala but denied any corrupt ties, despite frequent personal interactions.
Broader Implications
The Madlanga Commission has also brought to light allegations involving other police officials, such as Brig Rachel Matjeng, who had a personal relationship with Matlala, and Julius Mkhwanazi, accused of providing Matlala with police amenities for his personal vehicles. These revelations have raised questions about systemic issues within the police force, and many South Africans hope Matlala’s testimony in September will shed light on the mechanisms of alleged corruption.
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