Mantashe to challenge Zondo report in court for damning findings against him

MINERAL Resources and Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe has vowed to challenge the Zondo Commission report implicating him in state capture in court.

Mantashe made the pledge after Acting Chief Justice Raymond Zondo handed over his damning report against Mantashe, the ANC and several other senior figures in the party.

In the report, Justice Zondo has recommended criminal investigations against Mantashe for accepting Bosasa to install security systems at his three houses in Cala, Elliot in the Eastern Cape and another in Boksburg in Gauteng.

“The evidence that stands is that Mantashe was seen by the leadership of Bosasa as a ‘brilliant connection’,” Judge Zondo said.

While the judge has not found prima facie evidence against Mantashe, he insisted the law-enforcement agencies must investigate and gather enough evidence with intent to criminally prosecute Mantashe.

Mantashe was adamant he would take the report for review, saying “my lawyers were analysing the report and would advise me on the next step of action”.

Mantashe, however, said Justice Zondo had not made a prima facie ruling against him, saying he only said further investigations might uncover prima facie evidence.

“It is for these reasons I take the report for a legal review,” Mantashe said.

He said Judge Zondo made the finding in his previous capacity as the ANC secretary-general and not as a minister. “I should be allowed to continue my job as a minister.”

Mantashe made these remarks ahead of journalists asking him whether he would step aside as minister following the damning report.

Former Gauteng premier Nomvula Mokonyane was also considering legal action against the report, saying her lawyers were still studying the report.

Former president Jacob Zuma is also the next in line to consider taking the report for a legal review.

- Political Bureau