Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, who has been described as a cartel leader, is expected to appear before the Madlanga Commission on Tuesday after making a series of serious allegations against officials and challenging the use of evidence related to his failed plea negotiations. Matlala’s appearance on Monday raised questions about alleged false statements, prison‑related deals and claims that officials from the Investigative Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) had coerced him. He disputed details in his statement and repeatedly invoked his right against self‑incrimination as his testimony unfolded. He admitted giving R50,000 to former Deputy National Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya but denied broader allegations that he had paid Sibiya R500,000, R300,000, or multi‑million rand monthly bribes. Matlala’s attempt to prevent the commission from using documents arising from his failed negotiations with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) was rejected by the commission chairperson. In a ruling, retired Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga said, “I reject the submissions made by Matlala’s legal representatives that the Section 204 statement cannot be used in these proceedings.” He clarified that restrictions on broadcasting the statement applied to criminal proceedings, not the commission. The ruling followed a challenge led by Advocate Anneline van den Heever SC, who argued that the Section 204 statement was inseparable from the failed Section 105A plea and sentence agreement. Madlanga said proceedings would continue unless a court granted an order interdicting the process.
Article source: The Independent Online | Image credit: The Independent Online