By Zukile Majova and Doreen Mokgolo
The national director of public prosecutions (DPP) has withdrawn all charges against former sports minister Zizi Kodwa and his co-accused, Jehan Mackay.
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Gauteng spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane told the media on Friday morning that they were not at liberty to divulge details of the submissions made by the accused to the director of public prosecutions. But it was mainly those submissions that got them off the hook.
Kodwa and Mackay made a brief appearance at the Palm Ridge Commercial Crime Court on Friday. The former minister was charged with taking bribes of R1.6 million from Mackay, an executive of tech company EOH. Mackay allegedly bribed Kodwa to influence decisions in the awarding of future state tenders.
After being charged, Kodwa had to follow the ANC’s step-aside resolution, which bars accused persons from remaining in public office until cleared by the courts. He had already taken his seat as an MP when he was charged and had to resign from the National Assembly. He also stepped down from his ANC position as a member of the party’s national executive committee (NEC).
A relieved Kodwa told the media that he was now a free man. “I am available, I can apply anywhere. I am in the job market; as you know, I am unemployed,” he said.
Kodwa is a close political ally of President Cyril Ramaphosa. It was not immediately clear whether the ANC will readmit him into the NEC or return him to Parliament.
Mjonondwane said the decision to abandon the prosecution was premised on grounds militated by the successful representations that were lodged by the accused with the office of the DPP.
“They were comprehensively considered alongside the evidential material contained in the case docket, the reports from the prosecutor and the regional head of the Specialised Commercial Crimes Unit and consultation with the investigating officer, she said.
Speaking outside court Kodwa said it is important to re-affirm the principles of equality that nobody is above the law.
“The past few months have been difficult but through prayers from loved ones and comrades who stood in solidarity, I remained strong.”
Mapping his plans, Kodwa said he would be going back to resume work for the ANC.
Pictured above: Free men, Zizi Kodwa and co-accused businessman Jehan Mackay walk free.
Source: X
