Former Minister of Public Enterprises, Malusi Gigaba, has handed himself over to the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC).
Gigaba was expected to appear in court on Friday morning. However, both he and the IDAC have confirmed that he will not appear just yet.
The case is linked to Gigaba’s alleged involvement in corruption at Transnet, the state-owned freight and logistics company, during his tenure as minister.
IDAC INVESTIGATIONS
This development follows IDAC Head Advocate Andrea Johnson’s appearance before Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee, where Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema questioned who was implicated in awarding tenders to alleged crime kingpin Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala. Johnson declined to name individuals, citing concerns that it could jeopardise ongoing investigations.
Gigaba, whose time as minister was clouded by allegations of interference in procurement processes, has stated that he will fully cooperate with authorities.
“Let me declare that I have full confidence in our courts – they are the forum where facts, not fiction, will finally prevail. My confidence is built on irrefutable evidence and a commitment to full transparency,” shared Gigaba.
Gigaba served as Minister of Public Enterprises between 2010 and 2014. During his tenure, the appointment of Brian Molefe as Transnet Group Chief Executive Officer came under scrutiny. Molefe has since been charged with corruption and fraud.
STATE CAPTURE FINDINGS AND ONGOING INVESTIGATIONS
Appearing before the Zondo Commission of Inquiry into State Capture in 2021, Gigaba admitted that the regulations governing the appointment of CEOs at state-owned entities might be flawed, as they do not provide for a rigorous process where the shareholder minister can effectively interrogate board recommendations.
The Commission also revealed that Molefe was not the board’s preferred candidate for the position. Transnet has been the subject of numerous investigations involving irregular procurement contracts worth billions of rands, including a R54 billion locomotive deal.
Several senior executives and board members have been accused of irregularly approving contracts during this period. Among those facing fraud and corruption charges are Molefe and former Chief Financial Officer Anoj Singh. It remains unclear what charges Gigaba himself may face at this stage.
