Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala: How a Tenderpreneur Shaped Top Politics and Landed in Prison

Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala’s story mirrors South Africa’s long battle with corruption and influence. Once seen as a rising businessman, he now sits in a maximum-security prison. His journey from flashy deals to criminal charges shows how politics, ambition, and greed often intersect in the country’s public sector.

Early Life and Business Start

Very little is known about Matlala’s early years. However, records show that he entered business through several small companies offering security and supply services to local government departments. By his forties, he had created a web of firms that benefited from public contracts.

Cat Matlala appearing in court facing criminal charges

At first, his rise appeared impressive. He built connections, studied procurement rules, and quickly understood how to win state tenders. Consequently, he moved from small operations to large-scale deals that placed him among Gauteng’s notable “tenderpreneurs.”

Winning Big Government Contracts

Matlala’s breakthrough came in 2024 when his company, Medicare24 Tshwane District, won a R360-million contract to provide health services for the South African Police Service (SAPS). This victory, however, came with controversy. Auditors soon flagged irregularities, while media reports questioned how a little-known business had secured such a lucrative deal.

Before that, his other companies — Black AK Trading & Suppliers and Cor Kabeng Trading & Suppliers — had already appeared in investigations linked to the Tembisa Hospital procurement scandal. As a result, many began to suspect a pattern of fronting and overpricing within his operations.

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Building Political Connections

Matlala’s success relied not only on business skills but also on political relationships. Over time, he developed links with several senior police officials and government figures. According to testimony before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, WhatsApp chats and emails tied him to well-placed insiders within the security sector.

Furthermore, some media reports mentioned Senzo Mchunu, the Police Minister at the time. Although Mchunu denied any involvement, the mention alone placed Matlala at the centre of heated political debates. Consequently, his name began circulating far beyond business circles.

Facing Criminal Charges

By 2025, Matlala’s empire began to collapse. Police arrested him on attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and money-laundering charges. The allegations stemmed from an alleged hit on his former partner, actress Tebogo Thobejane.

During his bail hearing, prosecutors described him as a flight risk and a danger to society. Therefore, the court denied bail and ordered that he remain in custody. He was later transferred to the C-Max section of Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Centre, reserved for high-risk inmates.

Shortly afterward, a surprise inspection uncovered a cellphone hidden in his cell. Consequently, officials tightened security around him and launched an internal investigation into possible corruption within the prison.

Tender Scandals and Investigations

Meanwhile, several investigations exposed deeper issues within Matlala’s contracts. Auditors found tenders that had only one bidder or lacked delivery records. In addition, whistle-blowers told oversight bodies that some of his companies existed only on paper.

Furthermore, investigative journalists uncovered financial links between his firms and political fundraisers. These findings suggested that public funds may have financed private events. As a result, analysts began referring to his operations as an example of “micro-state capture” — a system where business and politics merge for profit.

A Lavish Lifestyle

Before his arrest, Matlala lived a life of visible luxury. He drove exotic cars, wore designer clothing, and reportedly owned several expensive properties. Notably, one report claimed that former Police Minister Bheki Cele stayed in a penthouse associated with Matlala, though Cele denied the claim.

Nevertheless, these revelations shaped public perception. Many citizens viewed his wealth as proof that political connections still offer an unfair path to riches in South Africa.

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Legal Battles and Business Fallout

As of late 2025, Matlala remains in prison. His legal team continues to appeal for bail, but each attempt fails. Meanwhile, prosecutors are consolidating cases from multiple provinces to strengthen their argument.

In addition, his businesses face severe damage. The National Police Commissioner, Fannie Masemola, has officially cancelled the R360-million SAPS health-services contract, citing irregular procurement. Consequently, several of his companies risk liquidation as government agencies review pending payments.

Broader Implications

Matlala’s downfall reveals much about South Africa’s governance challenges:

Procurement abuse: Weak checks allow well-connected bidders to dominate contracts.
Law-enforcement capture: Business figures can influence investigations through personal ties.
Political accountability: Top leaders must now answer questions about oversight and due diligence.
Judicial strength: The courts’ refusal to grant bail shows growing willingness to act against elite corruption.

Together, these lessons highlight why transparency and reform remain crucial for the country’s stability.

Looking Ahead

The ongoing court process will determine Matlala’s guilt, yet his story already serves as a warning. Moreover, it reminds citizens how unchecked ambition can damage both institutions and public trust.

If the state successfully prosecutes him, it could signal a turning point in holding powerful tenderpreneurs accountable. However, if the case collapses, it may reinforce public fears that influence still outweighs justice.

Conclusion

Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala rose from small-time supplier to national headline. Along the way, he built fortunes, allies, and enemies. Eventually, his ambition outpaced the system that enabled him. Today, his life inside C-Max stands as a stark symbol of how quickly privilege can become punishment.

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