South Africa’s National Assembly Speaker, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, announced on Thursday that she would be taking special leave amid an investigation into alleged corruption during her tenure as defense minister.
The decision comes after investigators conducted a raid at Mapisa-Nqakula’s home on Tuesday as part of the corruption inquiry, although no further details regarding the investigation or the corruption allegations were provided.
Mapisa-Nqakula, who served as defense minister from 2012 to 2021, has vehemently denied any wrongdoing.
“Given the seriousness of the allegations and the extensive media speculation surrounding them, I have opted to take special leave from my role as Speaker of the National Assembly, effective immediately,” she stated in a released statement.
Despite reports in local media suggesting that she was expected to surrender to authorities on Friday, Mapisa-Nqakula clarified that there has been no formal notification of an arrest warrant or any communication regarding her imminent arrest.
“My legal representatives have, however, proactively notified the National Prosecution Authority of my willingness to comply and cooperate should the need arise,” she added.
According to South Africa’s state-owned broadcaster, SABC, Mapisa-Nqakula is suspected of receiving millions of rand in cash bribes from a former military contractor during her tenure as defense minister.
The allegations have drawn significant attention and raised concerns about corruption within the government, prompting calls for thorough investigation and accountability.
