The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry has postponed the testimony of North West businessman Suliman Carrim once again after he failed to appear at scheduled proceedings due to a reported medical emergency.
Carrim was expected to continue giving evidence before the commission on Thursday but was unable to attend after being admitted to a medical facility following a sudden illness.
The postponement marks the second disruption linked to health concerns, with an earlier appearance in April also delayed after he was hospitalized following a suspected heart attack.
Inquiry Seeks Independent Medical Assessment
During the hearing, evidence leader Matthew Chaskalson requested that proceedings be postponed until July 15 to provide Carrim with additional time to recover and potentially complete his testimony.
However, the commission also ordered that Carrim undergo an assessment by a medical specialist selected by the inquiry. The purpose of the examination is to independently determine whether he is medically incapable of participating in the proceedings.
Commission officials indicated that the evaluation is necessary to establish the legitimacy of his ongoing inability to testify.
Threat of Prosecution Raised
Chaskalson warned that Carrim could face legal consequences if he refuses to cooperate with the commission’s request for an independent medical assessment.
According to the commission’s position, a refusal to undergo examination by its designated specialist could be interpreted as obstructing the inquiry’s work.
In that event, the commission may recommend that authorities consider prosecution under the Commissions Act.
He further stated that if Carrim declines to comply, the inquiry could proceed to draw conclusions based solely on the evidence already presented.
Commission Prepared to Continue Without Further Testimony
The inquiry indicated that if the independent specialist confirms Carrim is genuinely unable to testify for medical reasons, he would be excused from further participation.
Under that scenario, commissioners would conclude their work and prepare findings using the information already gathered throughout the investigation.
Officials stressed that the inquiry cannot remain indefinitely delayed and must eventually reach conclusions based on the available evidence.
Allegations Linked to Police Healthcare Tender
Carrim’s testimony is considered significant because of allegations connecting him to a controversial South African Police Service healthcare contract valued at approximately R360 million.
The businessman has been implicated in claims that he used political connections and influence in relation to the awarding of the tender to Medicare 24 Tshwane District.
The company is owned by Vusimusi “Cat” Matlala, an individual who has been identified in the inquiry as an alleged cartel figure.
Concerns Over Missing Documentation
In addition to the issues surrounding his testimony, Chaskalson raised concerns about Carrim’s alleged failure to provide documents requested by the commission.
Several records reportedly remain outstanding despite repeated requests since Carrim first appeared before the inquiry.
The evidence leader argued that the missing information has hindered the commission’s efforts to fully examine the matters under investigation.
Legal Team Defends Carrim’s Absence
Carrim’s lawyers rejected suggestions that their client was deliberately avoiding the proceedings.
They told the commission that his absence was caused entirely by medical circumstances and pointed to his previous hospitalization as evidence of ongoing health challenges.
According to his legal representatives, Carrim is currently unable to engage meaningfully with either the commission or his own attorneys due to his condition.
Hearing Rescheduled for July
After considering submissions from both sides, the commission agreed to postpone the proceedings until July 15.
Officials indicated that Carrim’s attendance on that date, along with the outcome of any medical assessment, could determine whether the inquiry receives further testimony from him or proceeds to finalize its findings based on the existing record.
The commission’s next steps will likely play a crucial role in determining how the allegations involving the businessman are ultimately assessed.
