CELE UNDER FIRE: Matlala's Bombshell Revelation Rocks Parliament

Mpho Dube
3 days ago
2 min read

Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala and former Police Minister Bheki Cele.

By Mpho Dube, Editor-in-Chief of The Azanian

A shocking revelation rocked Parliament's ad hoc committee probing police corruption yesterday, with alleged Big Five cartel leader Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala accusing former minister Bheki Cele of accepting a bribe of R500 000.

Matlala's bombshell testimony has sent shockwaves through the political establishment, raising questions about Cele's integrity and fitness for public office.

Matlala, appearing before the committee, revealed that he had paid Cele R500,000 in two separate payments, and had even helped transport Cele and his wife to a wedding. This stunning admission contradicts Cele's earlier testimony that his relationship with Matlala was based on gathering information, and has sparked allegations of corruption and deceit.

"Yes, he lied under oath," Matlala said when questioned by EFF leader Julius Malema about Cele's testimony. "If he was asking for information, why would he accept payment?"

Matlala's testimony paints a picture of a man desperate to cling to power and influence, willing to compromise his integrity for personal gain. According to Matlala, Cele's actions were not those of a public servant, but rather a corrupt individual seeking to enrich himself.

"Cele was hell-bent on collapsing Mchunu's political ambitions," Matlala alleged. "He was extorting me and stopped taking my calls before I was arrested in May this year."

The committee also heard that Matlala and Cele met for the first time in Durban, contradicting Cele's claim that their meeting took place in Pretoria. Matlala's testimony has raised serious questions about Cele's credibility and has sparked calls for his resignation.

"Cele's actions are a betrayal of the public's trust," said a visibly angry Malema. "He must be held accountable for his actions and resign from public office immediately."

As the committee's investigation continues, one thing is clear: Cele's reputation lies in tatters. The former minister's claims of being a whistleblower and champion of anti-corruption efforts have been severely undermined by Matlala's testimony.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has been urged to investigate Cele's conduct and determine whether he has committed any crimes. The outcome of the investigation will be eagerly awaited by a public demanding greater accountability from its elected officials.

In the meantime, Cele has denied any wrongdoing, claiming that his relationship with Matlala was purely professional. However, with Matlala's allegations, it seems unlikely that Cele will escape scrutiny unscathed.

The drama unfolding in Parliament is a stark reminder of the rot that has set in at the highest levels of government. It's time for South Africans to demand better from their leaders and insist on transparency and accountability.

As the saying goes, "when the going gets tough, the tough get going." It's time for our leaders to show us what they're made of. The people demand answers, and it's time they get them.

The committee's investigation is ongoing, and more revelations are expected in the coming days. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.