ANC businessman Suliman Carrim challenges Madlanga Commission subpoena

ANC businessman Suliman Carrim has turned to the Gauteng High Court in a last-ditch attempt to stop the Madlanga Commission from issuing a subpoena to compel him to testify.

Carrim has sought an urgent interim interdict order barring the commission from compelling his appearance until part B of his application is heard.

According to court papers, Carrim wants the decision to classify him as a witness reviewed and set aside, arguing that he has been deemed an “implicated person” without being afforded what he calls the “principle of natural justice”.

Carrim has been summoned to give evidence on February 6, but insisted the commission must first spell out the allegations against him and the evidence relied upon before he can be lawfully compelled to testify.

The commission, chaired by Justice Mandisa Madlanga, is opposing the application and has filed answering papers ahead of Tuesday’s proceedings, arguing that Carrim’s bid would undermine its work and delay its mandate.

Carrim’s court move follows damaging testimony placing him at the centre of alleged influence-peddling and questionable financial flows linked to police procurement.

Witness X told the commission that Carrim received R1.5 million from alleged underworld figure Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala shortly after Matlala’s company was paid out on a South African Police Service contract.

Evidence leader-led questioning further revealed WhatsApp messages in which Carrim appeared to assist with invoices and payments, while boasting of access to the then-Police Minister Senzo Mchunu.

Additional testimony linked Carrim to more than R3 million in litigation funding channelled through the foundation of political fixer Brown Mogotsi.

Mogotsi later exonerated Carrim, before being accused by the commission of lying under oath.

Carrim has denied wrongdoing and is challenging the allegations in court, arguing that his constitutional rights are being trampled by a process that has already painted him guilty.

kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za

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