Former National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula appeared before the Pretoria High Court on 7 September 2026, where she is facing 12 counts of corruption and one of money laundering. She allegedly solicited corrupt payments from defense force contractor Nombasa Ntsondwa-Ndhlovu. The case involves a R250,000 payment in a gift bag allegedly made to Mapisa-Nqakula. Investigating Directorate prosecutors are grilling her on events from a defence force spousal forum in August 2018.
The state and witness Ntsondwa-Ndhlovu allege that Mapisa-Nqakula received a gift bag in the holding room containing R250,000 cash. However, Mapisa-Nqakula denies this, stating she only received a gift on the podium as the guest of honor. Ntsondwa-Ndhlovu was one of the programme directors. The alleged payment was reportedly requested using the code word 'padkos' because Mapisa-Nqakula had a trip to Port Elizabeth the following morning.
During cross-examination, Mapisa-Nqakula took the court through her personal banking trail. This was part of her efforts to counter allegations of corruption. Her testimony aims to clarify financial transactions and challenge claims made by the state and Ntsondwa-Ndhlovu. The case has garnered significant attention due to Mapisa-Nqakula's prominent position as former Defence Minister and National Assembly Speaker.
The Pretoria High Court proceedings involve intense scrutiny of Mapisa-Nqakula's actions during her tenure as Defence Minister. The court is examining allegations that she solicited corrupt payments from Ntsondwa-Ndhlovu. The case has implications for South Africa's efforts to combat corruption and ensure accountability among public officials.
Mapisa-Nqakula's case has experienced delays, including instances where she was absent from court due to ill health. Her return to the witness stand indicates a progression in the trial. The court is expected to carefully consider testimony and evidence presented by both the prosecution and defense.
The case is significant in the context of South Africa's ongoing efforts to address corruption. As a former high-ranking official, Mapisa-Nqakula's alleged involvement in corrupt activities has sparked public interest. The court's examination of the R250,000 cash payment allegation is crucial in determining the validity of the charges against her.
The trial's outcome may have far-reaching consequences for Mapisa-Nqakula and South Africa's anti-corruption efforts. If convicted, Mapisa-Nqakula could face substantial penalties. The case serves as a test of the country's judicial system's ability to handle high-profile corruption cases.
Key points
- The Pretoria High Court is examining allegations that Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula solicited a R250,000 corrupt payment.
- Mapisa-Nqakula denies receiving a gift bag with R250,000 cash.
- The case is part of South Africa's broader efforts to combat corruption among public officials.
