This is according to a political analyst, Professor Sethugelo Matebesi from the North-West University. Matebesi says the recent arrests of high-rank government officials and tender beneficiaries in connection with the asbestos scandal in the Free State might restore confidence in state organs and the country’s justice system. 

Matebesi’s statement comes amidst growing concerns as to whether the Hawks will eventually issue a warrant of arrest for the ANC Secretary-General Ace Magashule after they earlier this week confirmed no warrant of arrest was issued for Magashule. This, despite media reports that he was next in line following the arrests of seven suspects in the asbestos deal.

OFM News previously reported that seven suspects last week appeared in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court following their arrests over the asbestos tender worth R255 million and were granted bail ranging from R50 000 to R500 000.

 Amongst those arrested were Blackhead Consulting CEO Edwin Sodi, the former Free State Human Settlements HOD Nthimotse Mokhesi, former Free State MEC Olly Mlamleli, and former national Director-General Thabane Zulu.

They are all facing charges of fraud and money laundering, amongst others, and are due to re-appear in court on November 11 when the case is expected to be transferred to the Free State High Court for trial.

Meanwhile, the Hawks have announced they are expected to make two or three more arrests before the seven suspects are due to appear in court.

OFM News