During a session of the Madlanga Commission, Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala mentioned the name of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. The commission’s proceedings involved scrutinizing confidential information that Matlala allegedly shared with high-ranking police officials. This information reportedly included personal data connected to Ramaphosa, although Matlala clarified that he merely forwarded the document without knowledge of its contents or origin.
The commission was informed that Matlala had transmitted the document to Major-General Lesetja Senona, the former head of KwaZulu-Natal’s Hawks, after obtaining it from private investigator Calvin Rafadi. Despite the document’s sensitive nature, Matlala’s testimony did not imply any misconduct by President Ramaphosa.
Additionally, the relationship between Matlala and Senona was explored, with Matlala describing Senona as akin to an “older brother.” He disclosed that Senona had provided him with a loan of R20,000 following a police raid on his Pretoria property in December 2024. This interaction highlighted the personal ties between the two figures amid the commission’s broader investigation.
Matlala also brought forth allegations involving Lieutenant-General Shadrack Sibiya, the suspended Deputy National Police Commissioner. He claimed that Sergeant Fannie Nkosi served as a middleman in purported financial transactions involving individuals in Gauteng. However, Matlala refrained from naming these individuals, invoking his right against self-incrimination due to ongoing separate criminal proceedings he faces.
The Madlanga Commission is tasked with investigating claims of corruption, criminal activities, and political interference within South Africa’s criminal justice apparatus. These proceedings aim to shed light on the extent and impact of such misconduct within the system.
