Madlanga Commission accuses businessman of tactics to permanently stifle testimony

Lawyers for the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry have argued that North West businessman Suliman Carrim is seeking to permanently stifle the Commission’s ability to call him to testify.

Carrim’s urgent bid to block his testimony was heard in the Johannesburg High Court on Tuesday. He is seeking to stay the testimony he has been subpoenaed to give this Friday, pending the outcome of a separate legal challenge.

Carrim was implicated during a July 6 press briefing by General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who accused the businessman of meddling in police affairs.

Further allegations suggest Carrim played a role in ensuring that alleged crime boss Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala received payments from the police in relation to a R360 million tender.

The Madlanga Commission, which is challenging Carrim’s urgent application, argues that the businessman is attempting to run out the clock. The Commission is scheduled to conclude its work on March 16.

Lawyers for the Commission claim that if the stay is granted pending "Part B" of Carrim’s legal challenge—which contests the original decision to call him as a witness—it is highly unlikely the matter will be resolved before the Commission dissolves.

"It is clear that his main court bid... will not be heard by [the Commission's end date]," the Commission stated, suggesting the application is a strategic move to avoid the witness stand entirely.

If the Johannesburg High Court rules in favour of the Madlanga Commission, Carrim will be legally compelled to testify this Friday. Judgment on the matter has been reserved.