From EFF’s Malema to ANC’s Carrim — the politics permeating SA’s cop collusion scandal

South Africa is on the brink of local elections. Meanwhile, the lines between various politicians, allegedly dodgy characters and suspicious activities have blurred more than ever. Take the EFF’s Julius Malema, who is familiar with the now-fired Crime Intelligence cop Feroz Khan. Then there’s ANC-supporting Suliman Carrim, recently arrested in a car smuggling case.

Never has the line separating suspected gangsterism from governance been so flimsy and transparent in South Africa.

Their names have been emerging as South Africa heads towards next week’s local government elections.

Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala is a central figure in South Africa’s law enforcement.

Carrim was initially arrested as he was about to leave South Africa at OR Tambo International Airport late on 15 October 2026, for failing to testify at the Madlanga Commission.

Paired with the criminal charges Carrim now faces, these are also not great optics for the ANC.

Enter the EFF.