A state witness in the High Court in Pretoria has testified that former Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula and her husband, Charles Nqakula, provided between R1.7 million and R1.8 million for renovations and decorations at their Johannesburg home. The witness, identified as Shabangu, told the court she managed the project and made payments to service providers, though some cash payments were handled directly by the couple.
Renovation Payments and Witness Testimony
Shabangu, who described her relationship with the former minister as being “like a sister,” provided details on how the renovation project was executed. Among the contractors appointed was architectural designer Azwindini Mulaudzi, who was tasked with drafting revised plans for the property.
According to testimony from both Shabangu and Mulaudzi, a R20,000 cash deposit was paid to the designer by Shabangu. Mulaudzi confirmed receiving this amount and further testified that an outstanding balance of R50,000 was settled in cash by Nosiviwe and Charles Nqakula in 2018.
Defence Strategy and Financial Oversight
During cross-examination, the legal team representing Mapisa-Nqakula noted that the minister and Shabangu have known each other since 2014. The defence argued that the bond between the two was akin to family, explaining why the couple entrusted Shabangu with their finances.
The defence further stated that the trust was such that Mapisa-Nqakula would occasionally leave a personal bank card with the witness to cover various renovation expenses. These details are part of the ongoing proceedings regarding the 12 counts of corruption and one count of money laundering facing the former minister.
Did You Know? The corruption and money laundering charges against Mapisa-Nqakula stem from allegations made by defence contractor Nombasa Ntsondwa-Ndlovu, who claims to have paid the former minister R2.1 million in several instalments.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Mapisa-Nqakula has entered a plea of not guilty and maintains that she did not receive any payments from Ntsondwa-Ndlovu. The trial is set to continue with Shabangu expected to return to the witness stand on Wednesday for further cross-examination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the charges against Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula?
She is facing 12 counts of corruption and one count of money laundering.
What is the source of the alleged R2.1 million in payments?
The charges stem from allegations by defence contractor Nombasa Ntsondwa-Ndlovu, who admitted to paying that amount to the former minister in several instalments.
How did the defence explain the cash payments for renovations?
The defence argued that the couple had a close, family-like relationship with the witness, Shabangu, and trusted her with their finances to the extent of providing her with a personal bank card for expenses.
How might the ongoing cross-examination of the witness impact the court’s view of the financial evidence presented thus far?
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