Mapisa‑Nqakula to seek discharge of R4.55m bribery and money‑laundering charges

Former defence minister Nosiviwe Mapisa‑Nqakula will ask the Gauteng High Court in Pretoria to dismiss the corruption and money‑laundering charges she faces, court papers show. She is due back in court on Thursday, 20 August 2026, as the defence prepares a Section 174 discharge application following the close of the State’s case.

What the charges say

Mapisa‑Nqakula faces 12 counts of corruption and money laundering. The State alleges she solicited R4.55 million in bribes from SANDF contractor Nombasa Ntsondwa‑Ndhlovu between December 2016 and July 2019.

Defence moves and next steps in court

Legal counsel Siyabulela Mapoma SC informed the court that the defence intends to bring a Section 174 application for discharge. The State closed its case earlier this month after presenting evidence over two weeks, and the defence will now seek transcripts and file heads of argument.

“The accused placed it on record in court that she will be filing for a discharge in the matter. The state has closed its case, and it will await the heads of argument from the accused in order to draft a reply,” said Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (Idac) spokesperson Henry Mamothame.

If the Section 174 application is upheld the accused would be discharged at the close of the State’s case, meaning she would not have to present a defence or give evidence. If the bid fails, the defence will call witnesses and Mapisa‑Nqakula could testify and be cross‑examined.

Origins of the case and timeline

The alleged offences relate to Mapisa‑Nqakula’s time as minister of defence and military veterans, a post she held from June 2012 until August 2021. The case began after a criminal complaint by United Democratic Movement leader and current Deputy Defence Minister Bantu Holomisa. Following her arrest in April 2024, Mapisa‑Nqakula stepped down from her role in Parliament.

What to expect at the next hearing

At the upcoming court appearance the defence is expected to seek full trial transcripts to prepare the discharge application. The State will review the defence heads of argument and file a reply before the court rules on whether the accused should be discharged or the trial should continue.