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Ace Magashule, the former ANC secretary-general, appeared briefly in the Free State High Court on Friday on charges related to an R225 million asbestos tender, before the case was rescheduled.
He expresses optimism that his case will be resolved quickly.
The allegations stem from his time as Free State premier. Postponements have marred the case, with Magashule claiming that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is “wasting time” and that he has not stolen a penny from the government.
“Waste of time by the NPA, as expected they always create an impression that the delay comes from us. I know that there is a technicality at the Supreme Court and I hope that this case will be speedily resolved.
“I am ready because I know I haven’t done anything wrong. I’ve not stolen a cent from the government. I am ready and I am still there. I am not a positional leader. I am more strong,” said Magashule.
“Whether you’re president or whether you are Ace Magashule or an ordinary person. The law must treat us the same, there’s no witness against me. I don’t know why I am here. Let the NPA move. This is a political case, it was done to prevent me from staying in the ANC conference but I am still here, it’s not about the ANC it’s about our people.”
He claims the case was staged to keep him from running for ANC positions at the party’s elective conference in December.
The most recent delay was until May 5 to allow the Supreme Court of Appeal to rule on a petition filed by Magashule and others. He is contesting the charges’ legality.