Parliament Slammed For Summoning Inmate Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala To Testify Amid Ongoing Criminal Case

Parliament’s ad hoc committee investigating corruption allegations is bracing for a busy week, with testimonies expected from Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia and the National Prosecuting Authority’s Investigating Directorate head, Advocate Andrea Johnson.

However, the committee’s move to summon Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala—currently detained at Kgosi Mampuru Prison—has triggered widespread confusion and criticism.

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Matlala, who faces serious charges including attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and money laundering, is still awaiting trial.

Legal experts are questioning the logic behind compelling a remand detainee to appear before Parliament while his own criminal proceedings are unresolved.

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Criminal defence attorney William Booth argued that calling Matlala to testify makes little legal or financial sense. He warned that it could waste public resources and complicate ongoing legal proceedings.

Booth emphasised that Matlala retains his constitutional right to remain silent and cannot be compelled to incriminate himself.

“He doesn’t have to answer any questions that may incriminate himself; that is the law in this country. Why have him come and testify? If I were his lawyer, I would advise him not to say anything, certainly until his own case is completed,” Booth said.

He further questioned the committee’s decision, asking:

“Is this not a waste of taxpayers’ money?”

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