Zondo calls for criminal investigation into Mantashe as he disputes State Capture Report
Tensions have escalated between Former Chief Justice Raymond Zondo and ANC heavyweight Gwede Mantashe over the findings of the State Capture Inquiry, with Zondo defending his call for a criminal investigation into Mantashe, while the minister disputes the report's conclusions.
In March 2022, the Zondo Commission released its third report, which implicated Mantashe in alleged corrupt dealings with the controversial state contractor Bosasa.
The report stated that Bosasa installed security upgrades at Mantashe's properties while he served as ANC secretary-general. Zondo concluded that there was a "reasonable prospect" of uncovering a prima facie case against Mantashe for corruption and referred the matter for further investigation.
Mantashe has consistently denied any wrongdoing, asserting that he did not solicit or accept bribes. He has also indicated his intention to challenge the findings through a judicial review.
In response to Zondo's referral, Mantashe criticised the Chief Justice, stating that Zondo "thinks he owns and manages the state capture report."
He further remarked that Zondo should allow the relevant authorities to handle the matter instead of making it about himself.
Chief Justice Zondo has defended his actions, emphasising that the referral was based on the evidence presented during the commission's proceedings. He maintains that the referral was made under the commission's mandate to investigate and report on instances of state capture. Zondo has reiterated that the findings were not personal but were grounded in the commission's objective analysis.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has stated that it will review the findings of the State Capture Inquiry and determine whether criminal investigations are warranted. NPA spokesperson Mthunzi Mhanga noted that the commission did not conduct criminal investigations and that the NPA would assess the information provided to decide on the appropriate course of action.
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