By localnew 
Mashatile Denies Claims He Met Alleged Crime Figure Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala
South Africa’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile has denied claims that he met or planned to meet alleged crime figure Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala.
The allegations surfaced during testimony at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, where Sergeant Fannie Nkosi claimed that Matlala indicated he intended meeting Mashatile.
Mashatile has strongly rejected the claims, describing them as completely untrue. Through his spokesperson, he stated that he does not know Matlala and has never had any dealings or association with him.
According to reports, the Deputy President also indicated that he was out of the country at the time the alleged meeting was said to have taken place, further disputing the testimony presented before the commission.
The claims form part of ongoing hearings at the Madlanga Commission, which is investigating alleged links between organised crime figures and members of law enforcement and political structures.
Matlala, who has previously been linked to major government tenders and alleged organised crime networks, has also denied wrongdoing in several matters connected to investigations.
Authorities continue to examine evidence presented at the commission as part of broader efforts to address corruption and criminal influence within state institutions.