This Content is for Subscribers Only
Malusi Gigaba is expected to step aside from ANC duties after being charged in the Transnet locomotive corruption case. He appeared at the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court on 18 November 2025 and was confirmed as the fifth accused. The matter will resume on 30 January 2026 for the full indictment.
What Happened?
Gigaba has been formally charged in connection with the R54 billion Transnet locomotive procurement project.
The charges relate to tenders for 95, 100, and 1,064 locomotives awarded between 2010 and 2014.
Investigators allege the tenders bypassed procurement rules and caused massive losses to Transnet. State prosecutors claim Gigaba received undisclosed cash from members of the Gupta family during his tenure as Public Enterprises Minister.
He joins co-accused Brian Molefe, Siyabonga Gama, Anoj Singh, and Thamsanqa Jiyane, who were arrested.
Official Response
ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula said the party expects Gigaba to honour the step-aside rule.
“If Malusi is charged with corruption, he will have to step aside. He will do that voluntarily,” Mbalula said.
The ANC is still considering whether he must vacate his parliamentary seat.
Meanwhile, Gigaba’s attorney Ian Levitt said the former minister will fight the charges.
“Our client maintains his innocence and will address the allegations through the court process,” he said.
Court officials confirmed the defence has not yet received the full docket.
Community Impact
The case has renewed debate about accountability and the long-term legacy of state capture. Analysts say the charges test the ANC’s pledge to clean up state institutions.
Residents following the case say they want quicker progress on corruption matters that have dragged for years.
