Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has issued a firm denial against claims that he enlisted businessmen Brown Mogotsi and Vusimuzi Matlala to arrange a Cape Town dinner earlier this year. The minister testified before Parliament’s ad hoc committee, which is investigating allegations of political interference and corruption within the South African Police Service (SAPS)....Click to Read More >>➤
Mchunu clarified his whereabouts during the period in question, which aligned with the African National Congress (ANC) January birthday events. He stated he was not in Cape Town that weekend. Instead, he traveled to KwaZulu-Natal to attend a funeral service. The minister emphasized he has never had any interaction with either Mogotsi or Matlala and has never met Matlala in person.
Allegations of Political Funding
During the proceedings, evidence leader Norman Arendse informed the committee that a witness is prepared to testify. This witness will claim that Matlala, who is currently accused of murder, is financially backing Mchunu’s alleged ambitions to secure a top position within the ANC. The alleged goal is for Mchunu to become the party’s president or deputy president.
Mchunu dismissed these allegations completely. He stated he has no knowledge of any such connection or financial support. The minister directly addressed the claims about the Cape Town dinner, firmly rejecting any involvement.
“I have never had any discussion with anyone, Brown Magotsi to be exact, for any dinner, anywhere about any contribution anywhere, and so on,” Mchunu testified.
Detailing his schedule, the minister said he participated in the ANC’s birthday week in George before departing Cape Town on the evening of January 8. His destination was Eshowe for a funeral, further distancing himself from the alleged event.
“I deny, with evidence, that I had anything to do with that dinner said to be sponsored by Matlala, nor did I ask him directly or indirectly to organise any dinner,” he added.
Mchunu also refuted accusations of receiving any financial benefits from Matlala. He challenged his critics to provide proof of such transactions, noting that no evidence has been presented to support these serious claims. The minister’s testimony aims to clear his name amid the ongoing probe into SAPS. ...Click to Read More >>➤
