Speaking in the vicinity of the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court where approximately 3 000 ANC supporters gathered to showcase their support for Magashule amidst his corruption case, Lungisa said they will mobilise more ANC members when Magashule reappears in court on August 11. 

He said the charges against Magashule are politically motivated and that the judiciary system has seemingly become biased towards certain politicians. The former councillor - who is currently on parole following his arrest over the assault of a DA Councillor after he smashed a glass water jug over his head during an altercation in a council meeting - said there is a high need to protect and support politicians who have criminal charges levelled against them, fuelled by political opponents.

Lungisa said they are of the view that charges brought against Magashule are nothing, but allegations are politically motivated to tarnish his name. He told the masses gathered at the park opposite the City Hall that they will continue showing support for Magashule and former President Jacob Zuma, amongst others.

Whilst Magashule is being prosecuted for his alleged involvement in the failed asbestos project worth R255 million, Zuma has over the past month made news for defying the ruling on the Constructional Court that ordered him to present himself at the State Capture Commission of Inquiry.

Magashule and his co-accused, which include the CEO of Blackhead Consulting Edwin Sodi, former Free State Human Settlements HOD Nthimotse Mokhesi, and former national Director-General Thabane Zulu, as well as former Free State Human Settlements MEC Olly Mlamleli, amongst others, are expected to appear before the Free State High Court for pre-trial proceedings after their case was postponed by Magistrate Mxolisi Saliwa to 11 August in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court on Friday.

They appeared alongside five companies, Blackhead Consulting, Diamond Hill Trading 71 (Pty) Ltd, 605 Consulting Solutions (Pty) Ltd, Mastertrade 232 (Pty) Ltd, and Ori Group (Pty) Ltd.

They all stand accused of looting funds that were earmarked to see the assessment, audit and removal of asbestos roofs in the province in 2014 when the housing tender was awarded.

OFM News