‘Cat’ Nickname Explained: Vusimuzi Matlala Tells MPs His Name Comes From Having Nine Children

Controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala has revealed to Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee that his well-known nickname “Cat” originates from the fact that he is a married father of nine children.

Matlala was addressing MPs as part of ongoing hearings into allegations of interference in South Africa’s criminal justice system.

He became implicated earlier this year after KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi accused him of cultivating relationships with senior police officials and allegedly influencing decisions, including the disbandment of the Political Task Team.

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Providing personal background, Matlala said: “I was born and raised in Mamelodi East, Pretoria and I went to Letlhabile Secondary School. I registered my first official business in 2017, it was a security company and I serviced clients from construction sites and schools.”

He confirmed that he was raised by a single mother and disclosed that he was sentenced to four years in 2001 for possession of stolen property, although the sentence was later converted to correctional supervision.

Committee Divided Over Proceeding With Cat’s Testimony

Earlier in the session, uMkhonto Wesizwe (MK) Party representatives requested a postponement, arguing that Matlala’s statements had not been signed.

The request sparked tension, with parties including the EFF, DA, and ActionSA openly rejecting the proposal and insisting that the testimony continue as planned.

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Matlala proceeded after taking an oath and promising to give a truthful and transparent account of his role and associations.

Testimony Continues Inside Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Facility

The hearings are being held at Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre, where Matlala is currently detained. He is facing charges related to the attempted murder of his ex-girlfriend, actress Tebogo Thobejane.

The Ad Hoc Committee is examining serious claims of criminal infiltration, political influence, and alleged manipulation within law-enforcement structures. Matlala remains a key witness in unpacking the allegations made by senior police officials.

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