Madlanga Commission
Suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu was questioned by EFF leader Julius Malema over his acceptance of an affidavit from jailed businessman Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala. The committee is probing allegations of political interference, including claims that Mchunu shielded criminal syndicates and misrepresented ties with controversial figures.
In a tense session before Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee, suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu faced pointed questions from Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema regarding his acceptance of an affidavit from Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala, a businessman currently incarcerated in a maximum-security facility.
The committee is investigating allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who has accused Mchunu of political interference in police matters. Mkhwanazi's allegations include claims that Mchunu has protected criminal syndicates and lied about his associations with controversial figures such as Matlala and businessman Brown Mogotsi.
Malema questioned Mchunu's decision to seek an affidavit from Matlala, given the serious allegations surrounding him. "There are all these allegations about Matlala, yet you still go and ask him for an affidavit. You are looking for an affidavit from an unethical man who is in prison," Malema remarked.
Mchunu responded by stating that the affidavit from Matlala denied any dubious dealings with him. He explained that he had expressed his wish to his lawyers that such an affidavit would help distance himself from Matlala. "The lawyers then pursued my wish, calling Matlala’s lawyers, and this is the result. I don’t think you should stretch this thing any further other than it is," an exasperated Mchunu said.
However, Malema raised concerns about the process, highlighting inconsistencies in Mchunu's explanations regarding how the affidavit was obtained. "You said your lawyers went without your instruction, then you said you had instructed them, and then you say that Matlala wrote to your lawyers, uninvited. Which answer should stand here... it's becoming worse because you gave three answers," Malema pointed out.
The inquiry also delved into Mchunu's decision to disband the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) in December 2024. Malema questioned the timing of the directive, which was issued over the festive season, and how the decision addressed the country's crime issues. Mchunu defended his actions, stating that while it was the festive season, the posts were to be discussed at their meeting at the beginning of the New Year. He emphasized his desire for the team to begin the year with purpose on issues he had identified.
The committee's investigation continues as it seeks to determine the extent of political interference in police operations and the implications for law enforcement integrity.
