Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Des Erasmus
Published on 2024-03-22 16:00:00
Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula is facing refusal to be arrested on charges of corruption and money-laundering involving R4 million. This refusal has put her at odds with her lawyer, who stated that she would hand herself over to the police “in due course”. A letter sent to the National Prosecuting Authority on 18 March 2024, signed by Mapisa-Nqakula’s attorney, Stephen May, outlined their plan for her surrender.
May mentioned that he would accompany his client to the Lyttleton police station for processing and then to the Pretoria magistrate’s court for charging. This plan was also hinted at in a conversation with the Mail & Guardian where May expressed concerns about the timing and strength of the state’s case against Mapisa-Nqakula. He highlighted that they were not trying to avoid the truth-finding process but were cautious about the legitimacy of the charges.
The charges against Mapisa-Nqakula are related to alleged gratification exceeding R4 million in the form of cash bribes from a former South African National Defence Force contractor during her time as the defense and military veterans minister from 2012 to 2021. Her decision to take “special leave” from her position as the National Assembly’s speaker was criticized by the Democratic Alliance, who called it a “cop-out” and demanded her resignation.
In her high court application, Mapisa-Nqakula insisted on having access to the case docket before surrendering to shed light on what she considers unlawful conduct by the state. She emphasized the need for full disclosure of all material information related to the case to prepare a defense against what she deems baseless allegations brought against her. Mapisa-Nqakula also expressed concerns about the case details being leaked to the media, subjecting her to a trial by public opinion without the ability to defend herself.
The situation has escalated with the Democratic Alliance announcing a motion of no confidence against Mapisa-Nqakula in parliament. The speaker’s claim of innocence and demands for full disclosure from the NPA highlight the escalating tension between her legal team and the state prosecutors.
Mapisa-Nqakula’s stance on the matter reflects her determination to challenge the allegations brought against her and seek transparency in the legal process. The unfolding events surrounding her potential arrest and legal battle underscore the complexities and challenges faced by high-profile figures entangled in corruption scandals. The outcome of this case will not only impact Mapisa-Nqakula’s political career but also set a precedent for how allegations of corruption and money-laundering are addressed in the South African justice system.
Read the original article on Mail & Guardian
