Madlanga Commission delays testimony of alleged tender kingpin Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala

South Africa's Madlanga Commission announced that the subpoenaed testimony of alleged tender kingpin Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala will be postponed after the commission cited heightened public and media interest. Commission spokesperson Jeremy Michaels said, “Due to the heightened media and public interest in the testimony of Mr Vusimuzi Matlala, the Commission wishes to advise that whilst Mr Matlala has been subpoenaed to appear before it on Tuesday, 7 July 2026, the evidence leaders will request that his testimony be postponed to a date to be determined.” Matlala’s legal representative will attend in his place, and the commission indicated the case remains under pressure to finish before its 31 August deadline.

Matlala, a businessman who rose through the private‑security sector before entering healthcare, was awarded a controversial R228‑million SAPS health‑services tender in 2024 through his company Medicare24 Tshwane District, receiving R50 million before the contract was cancelled. The commission has heard allegations of extensive links between Matlala and senior police officials, including a loan of R80 000 to Major General Richard Shibiri, who told investigators, “It was a loan.” The inquiry is also probing the so‑called “Big Five” criminal cartel allegedly involved in drug trafficking, tender fraud and other organised‑crime activities that may have infiltrated the police and political sphere.