The case, which involves high-profile figures such as former Free State Premier Ace Magashule and his former assistant Moroadi Cholota, resumed in the High Court in Bloemfontein on Thursday (22/5).

Adv. Teneille Govender, representing Magashule, argued South African investigators deliberately involved the FBI during their interactions with Cholota in the United States. Cholota’s legal representative, Adv. Loyiso Makapela, said the state had failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt the legality of her extradition, claiming due process was not followed.

The court heard cross-examinations of two witnesses, with both the state and the defense concluding their questioning on Thursday. Judge Phillip Loubser, overseeing the case, stated he does not require written heads of arguments but has allowed the parties to submit them if they wish.

The NPA maintains the court has jurisdiction to try Moroadi Cholota, who is challenging her extradition process from the US. The authority believes it has demonstrated the extradition was lawful and that Cholota can stand trial in South Africa.

The asbestos roofing case, stemming from a 2014 project meant to replace asbestos roofing in 30,000 households across the Free State, has become one of South Africa’s most notable corruption cases. Several accused face more than 70 charges, including fraud, theft, attempted theft, corruption, and money laundering.

The list of accused includes former Free State Premier and ANC Secretary-General Ace Magashule, his former PA Cholota, former MEC for Human Settlements Olly Mlamleli, businessman Edwin Sodi, former Free State Human Settlements head Nthimotse Mokhesi, supply chain director Mahlomola Matlakala, businessmen Sello Radebe, Abel Manyeki and Albertus Venter, and former national Human Settlements Director-General Thabane Zulu.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg