A recent investigation by News24 has uncovered allegations against South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile. The investigation has alleged that Mashatile is living a luxurious life at the expense of his alleged benefactors, including controversial businessman Edwin Sodi. The article titled “MASHATILE UNMASKED | The secret luxury life and state capture links of a president-in-waiting” has been denied by Mashatile as unsubstantiated.
Mashatile’s Response to the Allegations
In response to the allegations, Mashatile’s office released a statement on Wednesday, 28 June, refuting the claims as potentially damaging and unsubstantiated. According to the statement, if these allegations are left unchallenged, they could create an impression that Mashatile does not respect or seek to uphold his oath of office, the dictates of the constitution and national law, or consider the concerns of ordinary South Africans about corruption and unethical conduct from those who hold public office.
News24 reported that no responses were received from Mashatile or his alleged benefactors regarding the requests for comment. Defending Mashatile, the Presidency stated that News24 had failed to provide any real evidence of misconduct, choosing instead to rely on innuendo, suggestion, and guilt by association.
Denial of Awarding Contracts and Underhanded Means
Furthermore, the Presidency stated that Mashatile has never awarded contracts to the mentioned companies or used his influence to benefit them. The notion that Mashatile is working hard behind the scenes to secure the presidency through underhand means is strenuously denied.
Opposition Party’s Response
Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance (DA), the official opposition party, announced its intention to lodge a complaint with the Public Protector against Mashatile and ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbaula. The party has dubbed the controversy surrounding both politicians ‘State Capture 2.0’.
Similarity to State Capture Era
The DA highlights the similarity between these allegations and the incidents that characterized the State Capture era during President Jacob Zuma’s tenure. DA National spokesperson Solly Malatsi plans to lodge the complaint at the Public Protector’s Office in Wale Street, Cape Town, on Thursday morning.
Transparency and Accountability of Those in Power
As the South African political landscape faces yet another controversy, the question arises about the transparency and accountability of those in power. The search for the truth behind these allegations will be crucial in determining the integrity of the nation’s leadership and its commitment to the principles enshrined in the constitution.
