South Africa’s former Speaker of Parliament, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, has been charged with corruption and money laundering, facing 12 counts of corruption and one count of money laundering.
She appeared in court after voluntarily surrendering to the police and denied any wrongdoing, stating, “I do not have a propensity to commit crime.”
Prosecutor Bheki Manyathi presented “ample evidence” against Mapisa-Nqakula in court, leading to her release on bail. Despite her resignation, she clarified that it wasn’t an admission of guilt but rather a response to the seriousness of the probe.
President Cyril Ramaphosa commended her for resigning, citing her integrity and contribution to democracy.
The corruption allegations involve soliciting bribes for awarding contracts during her tenure as defence minister. A police raid on her home and subsequent investigations culminated in the charges against her.
Mapisa-Nqakula’s legal attempts to prevent her arrest were rejected by the courts, leading to her court appearance and bail release.
The accusations include demanding $120,000 in bribes for securing a tender related to army equipment transportation.
The ANC, facing electoral challenges and tarnished by corruption scandals, has expressed support for Mapisa-Nqakula’s resignation, recognizing the need to address integrity issues within the party.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about corruption within the ANC and its impact on public perception and upcoming elections.
Source-BBC
