In a dramatic escalation of its probe, the Parliamentary Ad Hoc Committee investigating corruption within the criminal justice system has resolved to call incarcerated businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala to testify, a move that will require high-security arrangements to bring him from his prison cell to the inquiry.
The committee, which is also poised to request another extension of its mandate beyond the 28 November deadline, confirmed that Matlala is a “significant figure” whose testimony is crucial. Advocate Norman Arendse, SC, the evidence leader, stated that because Matlala is “unavailable,” the committee will have to issue a subpoena to compel his appearance.
Matlala, who is currently detained at the Kgosi Mampuru Maximum Security Prison awaiting trial on charges of conspiring to commit murder, has been a central figure in the inquiry. He was directly implicated in the testimonies of both KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi and former Police Minister Bheki Cele.
High-Stakes Security and Logistics
Committee Chairperson Soviet Lekganyane addressed the complex logistics of having a high-profile detainee testify. “The overriding principle was that he would be at the inquiry,” Lekganyane stated, confirming that the Department of Correctional Services will be tasked with making the security arrangements.
In a remark underscoring the gravity of the situation, Lekganyane added that the department must ensure “so that when a person is here, he must not escape in our presence.” The committee will coordinate with correctional services on whether Matlala can be brought to Cape Town or if evidence leaders will need to consult with him in prison.
Suspended Official Agrees to Testify
In other developments, the committee has secured the anticipated testimony of suspended Inspector-General of Intelligence, Imtiaz Fazel. After initial hesitation from Fazel, who argued that his suspension meant he should not testify, Advocate Arendse reported that Fazel’s legal team has now confirmed he will appear voluntarily on 21 November.
Race Against Time
With the clock ticking on its mandate, the committee faces a mountain of work. It has yet to consider 286 written submissions from the public. Chairperson Lekganyane confirmed it is “possible” they will not finish by the November deadline and will formally request another extension to complete this “important work,” setting the stage for a prolonged and deep-reaching investigation into the heart of state corruption.
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