Safety concerns force changes to Witness X testimony at Madlanga Commission
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry has temporarily adjusted the testimony of a highly sensitive witness, known as Witness X, after technical issues raised safety concerns.
Witness X, who is providing evidence linked to serious corruption allegations within the South African Police Service, was testifying remotely under strict protective measures.
The arrangement allowed the witness to remain off camera, with answers relayed through Evidence Leader Adila Hassim, ensuring both identity and voice were concealed.
Hassim asked the witness to confirm they were alone, which the witness did.
After at least an hour of deliberations, the commission decided to adopt a different format for the testimony.
Chairperson Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga explained the reasoning behind the decision, saying, “We ran into technical difficulties that had the potential of endangering the safety of Witness X. As a result, we have decided to stop proceeding in accordance with the ruling made by agreement this morning.”
Justice Madlanga emphasised that the ruling was not taken lightly.
“This decision has not been taken lightly because this commission values and respects transparency. Transparency is not transparency for transparency’s sake. It is about the interest that the public has on matters that affect them.
"And this interest is founded in our constitutional values of accountability, responsiveness and openness.
"So, we share any possible concerns that the public may have about the ruling that we are about to make.”
He reiterated the priority of safety over process, noting, “Transparency cannot be at the risk of endangering the safety of Witness X. Thus, we must adopt a different format on how Witness X’s evidence must be tendered.
"In due course, the commission will decide on how and when questions may be asked with regard to the testimony.”
Under the revised arrangement, the evidence leader is reading Witness X’s statement into the record.
Witness X’s evidence details Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, a businessman and tender tycoon accused of attempted murder, and his dealings with various high-profile figures.
The witness outlined Matlala’s business with TSV Shuttles and communications with KZN Hawks head Lesetja Senona, who is alleged to have a vested interest in protecting Matlala due to his business connections with Senona’s son, Thatho Senona.
The statement also describes Matlala’s communications with businessman Suleiman Kareem concerning a R360 million health services tender that was ultimately cancelled.
Witness X detailed that Matlala sent Kareem a screenshot from a police-involved system recording multimillion-rand payments to his company and shared his bank account details.
ALSO READ