Malusi Gigaba to Appear in Court Over Transnet Corruption Probe

Malusi Gigaba to Appear in Court Over Transnet Corruption Probe

Former Public Enterprises Minister Malusi Gigaba is set to face the courts this Friday, after the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) officially summoned him in connection with the ongoing investigation into alleged corruption at Transnet.

In a statement shared on social media, Gigaba’s office confirmed he had received the notice and that he intends to comply fully with the legal process.

“Dr Gigaba will appear in accordance with the summons and in full respect of the rule of law,” the statement read. “He reaffirms his commitment to cooperating with the judicial process and expresses confidence in the integrity and fairness of South Africa’s legal system.”

Honouring the Court: Gigaba Speaks

Gigaba himself said he respects South Africa’s constitutional processes and promised full cooperation.

“My conscience is clear regarding my conduct in office – my actions have always been guided by policy, process, and the values of accountability and service,” he stated.

The appearance will mark a critical moment in the Transnet corruption saga, which has already implicated a number of high-profile former executives and business figures.

The Transnet Controversy

The probe centers on irregular contracts and payments worth billions of rand, including a controversial R93 million locomotive tender. Several former Transnet officials have already been charged and appeared in court:

• Brian Molefe, former CEO

• Siyabonga Gama, former executive

• Anoj Singh, former CFO

• Garry Pita, former executive

• Phetolo Ramosebudi, former treasurer

Business associates tied to the project are also under scrutiny, including directors and shareholders from Regiments Capital, Trillian, and Albatime. Charges include fraud, corruption, and money laundering.

The tender in question, led by a McKinsey-led consortium in 2012, saw costs reportedly escalate from R38 billion to over R50 billion, raising alarms and prompting investigations by the Zondo Commission.

Allegations and Historical Context

A 2018 forensic report revealed that Molefe had misled Transnet’s board about the need to inform then-Minister Gigaba of the cost overruns, suggesting a lack of transparency in the project’s management.

The Zondo Commission recommended further investigation into how funds were allegedly siphoned to the Gupta family, a key element of South Africa’s state capture narrative.

As the legal proceedings continue, Gigaba’s court appearance is being closely watched by both political analysts and the public, given his prominence in the ANC and past tenure at the helm of Public Enterprises.

Public Reaction and Commentary

Social media has already lit up with reactions. Some observers see Gigaba’s appearance as a test of judicial accountability, while supporters emphasise his statement about acting in good faith during his ministerial tenure.

This court appearance also underscores the broader narrative of state capture in South Africa, a scandal that has ensnared politicians, executives, and business leaders alike, and continues to shape the nation’s political discourse.

{Source: The Citizen}

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