Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Marianne Merten
Published on 2024-03-25 12:00:14
On March 10, the decision was made to prosecute Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, the former defense minister who is now on special leave and serving as the National Assembly speaker, for allegedly soliciting bribes from a defense contractor between 2017 and 2019 while she held the position of defense minister.
According to Investigating Directorate (ID) deputy director of public prosecutions Bheki Manyathi, the investigation into Mapisa-Nqakula’s conduct is complete, leading to the decision to prosecute her. The investigation culminated in a search-and-seizure operation at Mapisa-Nqakula’s Johannesburg home on March 19, 2024, which shed light on the corruption allegations involving the receipt of gratification amounting to R4,550,000. During the search, documents related to renovations at Mapisa-Nqakula’s residence, which she shares with her husband Charles Nqakula, were also seized.
Manyathi expressed surprise at Mapisa-Nqakula’s attempt to halt the legal process through an interdict and discovery application, as discussions were still ongoing regarding her voluntary surrender to authorities. He emphasized that an arrest alone does not warrant urgency, especially when there is no risk of detention. Manyathi stressed the strength of the case against Mapisa-Nqakula and refuted claims of any irregularities in the investigation process.
In response to the allegations, Mapisa-Nqakula raised concerns about the integrity of the investigation and accused investigators of misconduct. She emphasized her commitment to upholding the rule of law and constitutional democracy and expressed fear that the legal system was being manipulated for political purposes.
Manyathi’s affidavit revealed that key details of the corruption case against Mapisa-Nqakula were leaked to the public, leading to widespread speculation and media coverage. Despite maintaining her innocence, Mapisa-Nqakula announced her decision to step aside from her role as speaker of the National Assembly to ensure the integrity of Parliament during the investigation and legal proceedings.
The political drama surrounding Mapisa-Nqakula continues to unfold, with uncertainty regarding the scheduling of a motion of no confidence by the DA and the completion of the ethics committee’s investigation into the corruption allegations. Without a finalized ethics report by Thursday, all pending matters related to Mapisa-Nqakula’s conduct may lapse at the end of the parliamentary term.
The situation poses a complex dilemma for Parliament, with the potential for unresolved issues to be swept aside as the political landscape evolves. It remains to be seen how the developments surrounding Mapisa-Nqakula will impact the political landscape in South Africa moving forward.
Read the original article on Daily Maverick
