The appearance of controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala before the Madlanga Commission has turned into a legal tussle over his constitutional right against self-incrimination.

The National Briefing · Aug 18, 2026 · 15m

The appearance of controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala before the Madlanga Commission has turned into a legal tussle over his constitutional right against self-incrimination. Matlala repeatedly refused to answer questions he believes could prejudice his ongoing criminal cases, while his lawyer clashed with the commission over the scope of questioning and the late delivery of thousands of pages of documents. So, what does the Constitution allow a witness to refuse to answer at a commission of inquiry—and where does that right end?

Guest: Karyn Maughan, News24…