NOWHERE TO HIDE FOR EMBATTLED MCHUNU

Minister told that SA is troubled by his association with controversial figure

- MAYIBONGWE MAQHINA

EFF leader Julius Malema grilled suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu yesterday on why he had accepted an affidavit from attempted murder accused tenderpreneur Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, while he sits in a C-Max prison.

Parliament's Ad Hoc Committee is investigating allegations made by SAPS KwaZulu-Natal provincial commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi of political interference in the police.

“There are all these allegations about Matlala, yet you still go and ask him for an affidavit. You are looking for an affidavit from an unethical man who is in prison," Malema said in reference to Matlala, who faces allegations that he masterminded the attempted murder of his ex-lover.

Mchunu said the affidavit from Matlala denied any dubious dealings with him, with Mchunu saying Mkhwanazi’s false allegations must be investigated.

Mchunu said he had expressed his wish to his lawyers that such an affidavit would help distance himself from Matlala.

Mkhwanazi, has accused Mchunu of interfering with police investigations, protecting criminal syndicates, and lying about his association with controversial figures such as Brown Mogotsi and alleged crime boss Matlala.

“The lawyers then pursued my wish, calling Matlala’s lawyers and this is the result. I don't think you should stretch this thing any further other than it is," an exasperated Mchunu said.