Ace Magashule Says R255 Million Asbestos Case Is Politically Motivated, Leaving Mzansi Fed Up

• Former African National Congress (ANC) Secretary-General Ace Magashule believes his legal woes are political
• He blamed Free State ANC convenor Mxolisi Dukwana for using the criminal charges against him to neutralise him
• Prosecutor Johan de Nysschen said the criminal matter against Magashule was in no way politically motivated

JOHANNESBURG - Former African National Congress (ANC) Secretary-General Ace Magashule has blamed his political rivalry for his legal woes.

The politician blamed Free State ANC convenor Mxolisi Dukwana for using the criminal charges against him to neutralise him politically. Dukwana claimed that Magashule received donations from slain businessman Phikolomzi Mpambani to be granted an asbestos roof removal contract.

The dodgy contracts were worth R255 million. Magashule has since filed papers with the Supreme Court of Appeal to challenge the high court judgement.

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The high court dismissed his earlier application to have the charges against him thrown out. According to SABC News, Magashule argued that the state used Dukwana’s testimony before the State Capture Commission.

The former SG’s pre-trial hearing was suspended until next January. He and 16 others face corruption charges after being arrested by the Hawks.

Prosecutor Johan de Nysschen said the case against him was in no way politically motivated. According to the Mail & Guardian, de Nysschen said there was no political interference.

Citizens react to Ace Magashule’s remarks:

@kelvin_nchakga said:

“He must go and prove that in court, not here!”

@Khaya01940731 commented:

“The fact is, money was stolen. People should not politicise their thieving behaviour.”

@KhumaloFk added:

“Shame man Ace is just in it for it now blabbing on the side of the road.”

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Ace Magashule still disqualified from contesting at ANC 55th elective conference alongside Bathabile Dlamini

Briefly News reported that suspended secretary-general Ace Magashule would not be able to contest for a top position during the African National Congress’ 55th elective conference after he failed to challenge his disqualification.

Magashule’s fate is shared by ANC national executive council member (NEC) and former ANC Women’s League (ANCWL) president Bathabile Dlamini. The embattled ANC member appealed her disqualification by arguing that it was unconstitutional and did not align with the ANC’s constitution.

Both Magashule and Dlamini were disqualified from contending because of the criminal cases brought against them. Dlamini has already been convicted of perjury, for which she was sentenced to four years in jail or a R200 000 fine, News24 reported.

Source: Briefly News