ANC Integrity Commission to Investigate Gigaba, Mahlobo, and Frolick Amid State Capture Scandal

The African National Congress (ANC) is intensifying its efforts to restore public trust by initiating disciplinary hearings against three prominent members implicated in the State Capture scandal. Former ministers Malusi Gigaba, David Mahlobo, and Cedric Frolick are set to face the ANC’s Integrity Commission as part of the party’s ongoing renewal project. In a significant move aimed at salvaging its tarnished reputation, the African National Congress (ANC) has decided to subject three of its members—former ministers Malusi Gigaba, David Mahlobo, and Cedric Frolick—to disciplinary hearings over their alleged involvement in the State Capture scandal. This development is seen as a pivotal moment in the ANC’s ongoing efforts to demonstrate a commitment to accountability and transparency, particularly as the party seeks to regain public trust ahead of future elections.

The ANC’s decision to scrutinize these members is a direct response to the findings of the Zondo Commission, which implicated them in various corruption scandals that have plagued South Africa’s political landscape. The hearings are viewed as a critical step in addressing the legacy of State Capture and reinforcing the integrity of the ANC.

Malusi Gigaba’s Alleged Involvement: Former Minister of Finance Malusi Gigaba was prominently featured in the Zondo Commission’s report for allegedly conspiring with former President Jacob Zuma and the Gupta family. The most damaging testimony against Gigaba came from his ex-wife, Norma Mngoma, who claimed that Gigaba frequently returned home with bags of cash allegedly provided by the Guptas. Gigaba has vehemently denied these accusations, dismissing them as “patently untrue.”

David Mahlobo’s Allegations: David Mahlobo, who currently serves as the Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, faces accusations of bribing judges during his tenure as Minister of State Security. According to the Zondo Commission, Mahlobo was involved in “Project Justice,” an operation with a reported monthly budget of R1.8 million aimed at influencing the judiciary. Mahlobo has consistently denied any wrongdoing.

Cedric Frolick’s Implications: Cedric Frolick, Chair of the House Committee in the National Assembly, has also come under scrutiny. He was implicated in the Zondo Commission’s report for his alleged connections with Bosasa, a company notorious for its involvement in corrupt dealings. The report accused Frolick of playing a key role in securing the cooperation of Vincent Smith, the former Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services and Justice, to benefit Bosasa. Frolick, along with three other MPs, was previously cleared by the Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests after being implicated in the State Capture report.

ANC’s Renewed Commitment to Integrity: The ANC’s leadership, including Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, has expressed determination to address the issues that have eroded the party’s credibility. Mbalula has called for the resumption of disciplinary processes against the implicated members, emphasizing that the ANC must be seen to be taking decisive action against corruption. The Integrity Commission’s forthcoming investigations into Gigaba, Mahlobo, and Frolick are intended to signal a turning point in the party’s approach to governance.

The ANC Veterans’ League President, Snuki Zikalala, confirmed that the party is serious about upholding its integrity. He revealed that Mbalula had written to the Integrity Commission, urging it to resume disciplinary action against the implicated members. Zikalala also mentioned that the National Executive Committee (NEC) would soon convene to discuss the Integrity Commission’s report and take appropriate action against those found guilty of wrongdoing.

Future Implications for the ANC: While the focus is currently on Gigaba, Mahlobo, and Frolick, there is speculation that other ANC members implicated in State Capture may also face disciplinary action. Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, and former minister Nomvula Mokonyane are among those who have been named in connection with corruption allegations. However, it remains unclear whether the Integrity Commission will extend its investigations to these individuals.

President Cyril Ramaphosa, in his closing remarks at the recent ANC lekgotla, underscored the importance of the party’s renewal process. He called on ANC members to avoid any actions that could further damage the party’s image and urged them to uphold the values of excellence and competence in all their dealings.

The ANC’s efforts to address the State Capture scandal are crucial to its survival as a political force in South Africa. With the party’s credibility at an all-time low, the outcome of these disciplinary hearings will be closely watched by both the public and political analysts. The ANC’s ability to effectively tackle corruption within its ranks will determine whether it can regain the trust of the South African electorate.