By: Saneliso Mlambo
Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala has firmly denied having any direct contact or personal relationship with former Police Minister Senzo Mchunu during his appearance before the Madlanga Commission.
Answering questions about their relationship, Matlala clarified that he and Mchunu have never met face to face, nor have they ever spoken to one another.
While Matlala insisted that no direct communication took place, he confirmed to the Commission that a single indirect interaction occurred. This interaction was handled entirely by their respective attorneys.
According to Matlala, the lawyers exchanged correspondence simply to confirm whether he and Mchunu knew each other. Following this exchange, a formal letter clarifying the matter was sent to a parliamentary committee.
“I did not communicate directly with Mchunu,” Matlala stressed to the inquiry, reiterating that his legal team handled the matter entirely.
The Commission pushed further, asking if anyone else had tried to reach out to Mchunu on Matlala’s behalf. Matlala strongly denied using any third parties to establish contact.
Furthermore, he stated unequivocally that he has never had any dealings, communication or association with the Senzo Mchunu Foundation.
The inquiry later shifted its focus away from Mchunu to look into Matlala’s ties with a broader list of individuals. Commissioners questioned Matlala on whether he had exchanged sensitive information with anyone on the list.
The commission also asked whether Cat had offered gifts, money, sponsorships, gratification or favours.
Matlala denied the allegations, noting that his responses matched the details already submitted in his sworn affidavit.
Matlala’s responses formed part of his evidence concerning the relationships listed in his affidavit.
The Commission is continuing to examine the information contained in Matlala’s sworn statement.