MKP MP Shongwe says he was kidnapped ahead of Matlala hearing

In a powerful video message released on Monday, MKP MP Vusi Shongwe has opened up about the traumatic experience he endured just days before he was set to question the controversial businessman Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala.

Shongwe's kidnapping took place in Tembisa, mere hours before he returned to work, raising alarm over the safety of politicians linked to high-profile inquiries into purported corruption within South Africa's justice system.

Shongwe, visibly shaken yet grateful, expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the overwhelming support from South Africans who reached out following his ordeal. He recounted the details of the harrowing event, revealing how his assailants not only spoke of his parliamentary duties but also coerced him into withdrawing money from his banking app.

The incident unfolded when Shongwe, visiting relatives in Tembisa, came into contact with two armed men. In a chilling turn, one of the kidnappers addressed him by name, indicating that this was a targeted attack rather than a random crime.

“They loaded me into their vehicle and took off with me. I am humbled by the love and support that you have shown me,” he said, recounting the chilling words exchanged with his captors.

“They spoke about my work, saying: ‘You do your work by questioning people. Thula Shongwe, we’re also doing our work. Let us do our work, too. Where do you get those questions?’” After being released a few hours later, Shongwe went straight to the police station to formally lodge a case.

Despite the psychological toll this experience had on him, he proceeded to the Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Centre for a parliamentary committee meeting where Matlala was to appear.

Shongwe described his emotional turmoil upon confronting the individual who allegedly embodies the problematic nexus between criminality and political interests.

He reflected on the duality of his experience as a Kasi person, highlighting the societal challenges that accompany such incidents.

“I went to the hotel at about 5am to prepare for the day ahead. I tried to sleep a bit, but could not due to the trauma.

It was Thursday, and as someone who grew up in the location, these things of being mugged or hijacked happen daily; it has become normal,” he stated. “Although it was very difficult, I felt a responsibility to fulfill my duty and question Matlala.”

Shongwe’s bravery in the face of such adversity has prompted the MKP to seek urgent protection measures for MPs involved in the investigation into corruption and political interference, underscoring an urgent need for enhanced safety protocols for public officials navigating the perilous interplay between service and security in South Africa's current landscape.

He also revealed that incident prevented him from preparing thourgohly for his chance with Matlala, saying his use of Grootman, seemed to suggest that he was overly nice to criminal and underworld figure.

"I was not able to prepare the way I usually do. But what I want to address is that from day one, I never called LT General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, General. I called him Mr Mkhwanazi. Tgis was not eing soft on him, but its is respect. The same with General Sibiya, Nkabinde, Bheki Cele and others. We learn never to disrespect our elers, but to accord them respect,' he added.