Malusi Gigaba Steps Aside from ANC Duties: ‘This Is Not a Confession’

Former Finance Minister emphasizes voluntary move is procedural, not an admission of guilt

Dr Malusi Gigaba, senior African National Congress (ANC) leader and former Finance Minister, has voluntarily stepped aside from his ANC responsibilities, stressing that the decision is procedural and does not imply any wrongdoing.

The announcement comes amid ongoing corruption charges related to allegations that he accepted undisclosed cash payments linked to the Gupta family, which the State claims were illicit.

A Step Aside, Not a Confession

In a statement released on Wednesday, Gigaba was clear:

“Stepping aside is a voluntary measure designed to uphold the integrity of the ANC. It is not a confession, nor a disciplinary sanction. I remain committed to the party’s rules, values, and principles.”

Gigaba’s move aligns with resolutions from the ANC’s 55th National Conference, which introduced the step-aside principle to protect the party’s reputation while members face legal uncertainty.

“This principle exists to protect the organisation’s integrity, uphold public trust, and ensure that members facing legal processes do not place the movement in disrepute,” he explained.

Facing Serious Allegations

Gigaba appeared on Tuesday at the Palm Ridge Specialised Commercial Crime Court alongside five other Transnet executives, all facing the same charges. The case relates to allegations of corruption and irregularities linked to his time at Transnet.

Despite the gravity of the accusations, Gigaba’s legal team stresses that the step-aside is not punitive. Attorney Ian Levitt stated:

“Dr Gigaba maintains his innocence and will respond to all allegations in court, where evidence will be tested. Until then, no speculative commentary is productive. This is a procedural measure designed to preserve the ANC’s integrity and allow due legal process to unfold.”

The legal team also noted that they have yet to receive the full case docket or disclosure documents, meaning they cannot comment on the substance of the allegations until the state provides full details.

Political Context and ANC Renewal

Addressing claims that his decision might be politically motivated, Gigaba clarified that the move was consultative and transparent, coordinated with ANC leadership to ensure that unresolved legal matters do not hinder the party’s organisational renewal agenda.

He also highlighted that the step-aside affects only party roles within the ANC and does not impact his parliamentary duties, which are governed by separate protocols.

“I remain unwavering in my commitment to the ANC’s values and processes. This organisation deserves nothing less than absolute fidelity to its principles,” Gigaba said.

Court Proceedings

Gigaba’s next court appearance is scheduled for 30 January 2026, when the State is expected to formally disclose the indictment. Until then, the step-aside ensures he removes himself temporarily from ANC duties without implying guilt, allowing the legal process to proceed independently.

Observers on social media have highlighted the delicate balance this move represents: demonstrating accountability while defending legal rights. Many commentators note that Gigaba’s decision could set a precedent for how the ANC handles high-profile members facing legal uncertainty in the future.

{Source: IOL}

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com