Despite a sudden fire alarm at the Madlanga Commission on Monday morning, Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala has begun his testimony.
Matlala said that the Medicare SAPS tender is the subject of a criminal court case.
“I remain an accused in the matter…. I am entitled to be presumed innocent until proven guilty and not to answer any self-incriminating questions on such a complex matter that the state has always preferred charges against me.”
Shortly before proceedings got underway, the commission spokesperson assured everyone that proceedings would go ahead.
“The Tshwane Emergency Services have assured us that the building is safe… I can also confirm that Mr Matlala is in the building,” Jeremy Michaels said.
The alert forced the temporary evacuation of the hearing venue just before Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala was expected to testify.
The alarm sounded at Brigitte Mabandla College shortly before the scheduled 9.30am start, sending commission officials, attendees and journalists outside as a precaution.
Tshwane Emergency Services firefighters responded to the scene, while a heavy police presence remained at the venue. No injuries were reported.
The unexpected disruption temporarily halted proceedings as authorities worked to establish what triggered the alarm and whether the building was safe to re-enter.
Matlala is expected to face questions during testimony that has attracted intense public and media attention.
kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za
IOL News
