By: Zilungile Mkhize
The Madlanga Commission chairperson, Mbuyiseli Madlanga, has criticised allegations that the Commission prejudged an application for a stand-down.
The exchange followed complaints by advocate Rafik Bhana, representing businessman Suliman Carrim, about the late disclosure of financial records linked to his company Tasmica Construction. The documents are connected to Vusimusi ‘Cat’ Matlala and his company Medicare 24 Tshwane.
Madlanga rejected claims of bias, saying that engaging legal counsel during proceedings does not amount to prejudging matters. He told the hearing that it is normal for a commission chair to question legal representatives and test arguments before ruling on an application.
The Commission is investigating alleged financial irregularities and relationships between private service providers and government-linked health contracts. Proceedings have included scrutiny of business dealings and the flow of funds between companies that provided services to public health facilities.
Applications for a “stand-down” are typically made when legal representatives need additional time to study newly disclosed documents or prepare responses.
Madlanga said the Commission would consider such requests on their merits but cautioned against suggesting that procedural questions from the chair indicate a predetermined outcome.
