#UniteBehind Joins the Fight to Hold Prasa’s Past Leadership Accountable

Court Gives Green Light For #UniteBehind to Intervene in Prasa Corruption Challenge

In a landmark decision that could shape the future of public accountability in South Africa’s rail sector, the Gauteng High Court has ruled in favour of the activist group #UniteBehind, allowing it to join a legal challenge brought by five former Prasa board members against the Zondo Commission’s findings of corruption.

The court’s ruling means #UniteBehind, a civic organisation led by veteran activist Zackie Achmat, will now play a direct role in defending the findings of the State Capture Commission as they relate to Prasa — the country’s embattled rail agency.

Why This Matters to Everyday Commuters

If you’ve ever been stuck waiting for a delayed Metrorail train, or watched a station fall into disrepair, this story hits close to home. For years, South Africans have blamed Prasa’s decline on mismanagement, corruption, and political interference. #UniteBehind has been one of the most vocal organisations pushing for change, most notably through its #FixOurTrains campaign.

Now, with the High Court recognising that #UniteBehind represents the interests of rail commuters, the organisation is set to stand its ground against former Prasa leadership figures attempting to overturn the Zondo Commission’s scathing corruption findings.

Who’s Trying to Clear Their Names?

The five former Prasa executives looking to set aside the Zondo findings include:

• Sfiso Buthelezi – ex-board chairperson and former Deputy Minister of Finance

• Dr Bridgette Gasa-Toboti – former chair of Prasa’s finance committee

• Mmatebogo Nkoenyane – member of the same committee

• Nkosinathi Khena – part of the audit and risk committee

• Lucky Montana – once the group CEO of Prasa

They argue that the Commission’s report was flawed, selectively applied its own rules, and ignored critical evidence — claims that #UniteBehind is preparing to challenge point-by-point in court.

A Voice For The Voiceless

Judge Xenophon Stylianou made it clear: #UniteBehind’s work in holding Prasa accountable is not only long-standing, but vital. The group had previously submitted evidence to the Zondo Commission, published the damning #PRASALeaks series, and led nationwide campaigns spotlighting the collapse of South Africa’s commuter rail system.

In court documents, Achmat and the organisation stressed that its members use the trains daily and are directly affected by Prasa’s performance — or lack thereof. That makes them more than interested observers. They’re stakeholders.

The judge agreed, noting that it’s in the public interest and the interests of justice to let the group intervene.

The Bigger Picture

South Africa’s rail system once formed the backbone of public transport for the working class. Today, many lines are dysfunctional, stations are unsafe, and delays are routine. For years, activists, unions, and commuters have cried foul.

This case isn’t just about setting the record straight. It’s about accountability, justice, and ensuring that those who oversaw Prasa during its most controversial years do not escape scrutiny through the courts.

As the case unfolds, all eyes will be on how the former board members defend themselves — and how #UniteBehind, backed by years of activism and commuter frustration, responds.

Source:IOL

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