Day1: General Senona explosive testimony at the Madlanga Inquiry.

Day 1 of Senona's Testimony Admissions Regarding Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala: Senona confirmed a close, seven-year relationship with Matlala, whom he first met at his own traditional wedding in 2019. He admitted to a personal bond but denied it was transactional or involved professional favors. WhatsApp Evidence (The Property Deal): The inquiry examined messages where Senona asked Matlala, "Did you meet with Thato?" regarding his son’s potential property deal. Senona argued he was merely being a "supportive parent" and that the deal never actually materialised. Political Interference & Ministerial Claims: Senona testified about allegations that suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu interfered in cases with political links. He also described a meeting with KZN Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi and Matlala, during which Mkhwanazi allegedly offered to halt an investigation into Matlala in exchange for information on other officials. Denied Criminal Links: Senona explicitly denied leaking sensitive police information or assisting Matlala in securing a R360-million SAPS tender for Medicare24. He also claimed no knowledge of the "Big Five" criminal cartel, stating he only knew the term in relation to wildlife. Sensitive Internal Leaks: Evidence leader Advocate Adila Hassim questioned why Matlala felt comfortable sending Senona a video of an internal SAPS meeting discussing service providers. Senona maintained he did not know why the video was sent and denied any breach of his oath of office.