In a revealing testimony before the Madlanga Commission, Brigadier Rachel Matjeng admitted to feeling saddened by the cancellation of a lucrative R360 million contract awarded to Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, who faces charges of attempted murder. The contract, intended to provide medical and wellness services to the South African Police Service (SAPS), was terminated last year following serious allegations of tender irregularities and corruption.
Matjeng, a senior SAPS official, explained during her appearance that the abrupt end to the Medicare24 contract would pose significant challenges for the police force. “The cancellation of the contract meant that the South African Police Service (SAPS) would struggle with medical surveillance,” she told the commission, highlighting the potential operational impacts on officer health monitoring and wellness programs.
However, the session took a personal turn when Commissioner Sesi Baloyi pressed Matjeng on her emotional response, suggesting it stemmed from her alleged romantic relationship with Matlala. Baloyi pointedly questioned her motives, implying that her sadness was tied to the financial loss for her purported partner.
“Brigadier, you would have been sad for your partner as well. That they are cancelling such a big contract because it means he’s no longer making that money,” Baloyi stated. He continued, emphasizing the lack of controversy in acknowledging the connection: “You cannot admit that. There’s no controversy about it. It’s not controversial. He’s your partner. And, you know, as you’ve told us, he was quite generous. We’ve seen here financially. But just from being your partner, I think that you can admit, surely. I think you agree with me. We’ll take it as an agreement.”
The exchange underscores ongoing scrutiny into potential conflicts of interest within SAPS procurement processes. Matlala’s involvement has drawn particular attention due to his legal troubles, including the attempted murder charges, which add layers of complexity to the corruption probe.
The Madlanga Commission, tasked with investigating irregularities in government contracts, has yet to release further details on Matjeng’s testimony or any forthcoming recommendations. SAPS officials have not commented on the matter, and attempts to reach Matlala for a response were unsuccessful.
This development comes amid broader efforts to root out corruption in South Africa’s public sector, with the commission’s findings expected to influence future tender policies.