The death of former Cabinet Minister Tina Joemat-Pettersson has shocked South Africans, especially after a Twitter user known as @AdvoBarryRoux made a revelation about the possible suicide of the politician following a bribery scandal. Speculations have been rife on social media about the real cause of her death.
Confirmation of Death
ANC chief whip Pemmy Majodina confirmed Joemat-Pettersson’s death, stating that she had spoken to her sons, who informed her of the tragic event. The family has yet to release further details.
The Alleged Bribery Scandal
According to Sunday World and Independent Media, three MPs, including Pemmy Majodina and the chairperson of the inquiry, Qubudile Dyantyi, were allegedly seeking a R600,000 bribe from Busisiwe Mkhwebane and her husband to halt the Section 194 Parliamentary inquiry concerning suspended Public Protector advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane. A recent Sunday Independent exposé implicated Joemat-Pettersson and two other MPs in soliciting the bribe.
Mkhwebane’s Husband Files Complaint
A report by IOL suggested that Mkhwebane’s husband, Mandla Skhosana, had filed a complaint with the police, accusing Joemat-Pettersson of trying to extort money from him. On June 5th, The Star reported that Skhosana met with Hawks investigators in Germiston, Ekurhuleni, where he submitted all WhatsApp messages exchanged between him and Joemat-Pettersson.
Investigation
Hawks spokesperson Brigadier Thandi Mbambo confirmed that they had received a case docket of extortion for further investigation. Skhosana claimed that Joemat-Pettersson told him she represented Majodina and Dyantyi. Although both MPs have publicly distanced themselves from the scandal, they have not called Joemat-Pettersson a liar.
Social Media Reactions
As the investigation proceeds, Twitter users have expressed various opinions on the matter, with some offering condolences to her family and others speculating on the truth behind the events leading up to her death.
While the cause of Tina Joemat-Pettersson’s death remains unconfirmed, it is evident that her passing has left a considerable impact on the South African political landscape. As new details emerge, it is essential to bear in mind the tragic loss experienced by her family and loved ones while the investigation unfolds.
