Seven suspects are facing fraud charges relating to the funeral of the former president Nelson Mandela in 2013
It was about 2013 when the country of the South Africa experienced the passing of the father of the nations. Everyone within and outside the borders of the country mourned, others saw an opportunity to thief in the process of the burial. It is alleged that fraudulent activities took place as some gave ‘’ghost tenders’’. The local government had given the officials to overseer the process of the funeral but unfortunately, we get to see big Eastern Cape politicians being charged.
Businessman allegedly worked hand in hand with the politicians to mis-manage or steal part of the R10m before the hawks acted. There were a variety of transactions but however the matter is at the court.
The start of the trial has been delayed by numerous applications for postponement. The accused are charged with fraud, money laundering and contravention of the Municipal Finance Management Act.
The trial of suspended ANC Amatole regional chairperson Phumlani Mkolo; former Buffalo City speaker Luleka Simon-Ndzele; former mayor Zukiswa Ncitha; former deputy mayor Themba Tinta; former Eastern Cape health MEC Sindiswa Gomba; and the municipality’s former supply chain manager, Thembelani Sali is expected to be heard in the Eastern Cape High Court in Bhisho
It is alleged that the accused acted with a common purpose to defraud and manipulate municipal procurement processes. They allegedly manipulated the situation, so that the funds could be used for other purposes than what they were approved for.
They all pleaded not guilty to the charges which relate to R10 million, allegedly embezzled from the Buffalo City Metro during the memorial service and the funeral of former President Mandela in 2013.
