HEATED EXCHANGE: ActionSA's Dereleen James Clashes with Cat Matlala in Ad Hoc Committee

Alleged crime lord Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala.

ActionSA MPL Dereleen Elana James.

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

A tense confrontation unfolded today at the Ad Hoc Committee investigating allegations made by Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, as ActionSA's Dereleen Elana James locked horns with alleged crime lord Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala.

The committee, tasked with probing systemic corruption within South Africa's law enforcement agencies, heard explosive testimony from Matlala, who implicated former police minister Bheki Cele in a R1 million bribe scandal.

As James, a member of the committee, pressed Matlala for clarity on his allegations, the atmosphere became increasingly heated, with the two exchanging sharp words.

Details of the argument are still emerging, but sources close to the committee confirm that James challenged Matlala's credibility, citing his alleged involvement in various criminal activities.

Matlala, known for his flamboyant lifestyle and alleged ties to organized crime, remained defiant, insisting that his testimony was truthful and aimed at exposing corruption within the police force ¹.

James, a vocal advocate for anti-corruption and social justice, has been a thorn in the side of the ruling party, and her aggressive questioning of Matlala was seen as a bid to expose the truth behind his allegations.

The committee is expected to continue hearing testimony from key witnesses, including Cele, in the coming days.