Mchunu’s response contradicts over allegations ties to Matlala and Mogotsi
Mathipa Phishego
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has issued a formal statement denying any improper association with convicted businessman Vusimuzi Matlala and political figure Brown Mogotsi. Following recent allegations raised by Provincial Commissioner Mkhwanazi.
In the statement, released on Tuesday, Mchunu firmly rejected claims that he has any personal or
professional ties to Matlala. “The Minister has never met Mr. Matlala, has never spoken to him, nor has the Minister ever requested or received anything from him,” the release reads.
However, Mchunu acknowledged that he had acted on suspicions surrounding a South African Police Service (SAPS) tender that had been awarded to Matlala. According to the statement, the Minister initiated a review of the tender, which has since been terminated amid concerns of possible wrongdoing.
Regarding Brown Mogotsi, whose
recent release from custody has raised public questions. Mchunu clarified that he has met Mogotsi but described him only as “a comrade” and not an associate. “The Minister has never requested or received anything from him,” the statement emphasized.
This clarification comes amid growing political pressure and public interest following inconsistencies in the Minister’s prior testimony before the Police Portfolio Committee in March 2025. At that time, Mchunu denied knowing Mogotsi an assertion seemingly contradicted by his
current acknowledgment.
Opposition figures are demanding further investigation into the matter. Citing concerns over transparency and integrity within law enforcement.
The Minister’s office reiterated its respect for the President’s call for calm but maintains that clarifying the facts is essential. The developments add fuel to ongoing debates around political accountability and alleged interference in policing structures.
Image: Senzo Mchunu on X
Caption: The Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu and top officials of the South African Police Service