The trial against former Speaker of Parliament Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula has resumed in the Pretoria High Court, with Mapisa-Nqakula expected to face further cross-examination. She is accused of soliciting R4.5 million in bribes from a Defence Force contractor between 2016 and 2019. The case has garnered significant attention, with many following the developments closely. Mapisa-Nqakula's cross-examination had begun three weeks prior, during which she faced tough questions about her relationship with Nombasa Ntsonwa-Ndlhovu, the Defence Force contractor who turned State witness.
According to the State, Mapisa-Nqakula, who was Defence Minister at the time, ultimately received R2.2 million from Ntsonwa-Ndlhovu. The prosecution has presented evidence, including a picture of Mapisa-Nqakula and Ntsonwa-Ndlhovu at a Defence Force event in August 2018, where they were seen standing on stage together. The State claims that Ntsonwa-Ndlhovu handed Mapisa-Nqakula a gift bag on stage and another with R250,000 cash in a holding room.
However, Mapisa-Nqakula denies ever taking any gift bag from Ntsonwa-Ndlhovu. Her cross-examination continues, with the court hearing her responses to the allegations. The case has significant implications, given Mapisa-Nqakula's prominent position as Defence Minister and Speaker of Parliament.
The allegations against Mapisa-Nqakula center on her interactions with Ntsonwa-Ndlhovu, who has turned State witness. The prosecution's case relies heavily on Ntsonwa-Ndlhovu's testimony, which details the alleged bribery. Mapisa-Nqakula's defense team has raised questions about Ntsonwa-Ndlhovu's credibility, but the prosecution remains confident in their evidence.
The trial's progress has been closely watched, with many interested in the outcome. Corruption cases involving high-profile figures are rare in South Africa, making this trial particularly noteworthy. The court's decision will have far-reaching implications, not only for Mapisa-Nqakula but also for the country's efforts to combat corruption.
Mapisa-Nqakula's health had previously caused a delay in the trial, but she is now expected to continue facing cross-examination. The prosecution will likely press for further details about her interactions with Ntsonwa-Ndlhovu and the alleged bribes. The defense team will aim to challenge the prosecution's evidence and raise doubts about their case.
As the trial continues, the public will be watching closely for any developments. The case has sparked significant interest, given the prominence of the accused and the nature of the allegations. A verdict is expected in due course, although a timeline for the conclusion of the trial has not been provided.
Key points
- Former Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula faces corruption charges for allegedly soliciting R4.5 million in bribes from a Defence Force contractor.
- The trial has resumed in the Pretoria High Court, with Mapisa-Nqakula facing cross-examination about her relationship with Nombasa Ntsonwa-Ndlhovu.
- The State claims Mapisa-Nqakula received R2.2 million from Ntsonwa-Ndlhovu, who has turned State witness and is accusing her of corruption.
