The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) has stirred political controversy after summoning ANC NEC member and former Cabinet Minister Malusi Gigaba in connection with alleged corruption linked to Transnet tenders.
Gigaba confirmed on Thursday morning that he had been summoned to appear in court, where he expected to be charged. However, the IDAC later clarified that he had not been arrested and would not be making any court appearance on the day.
“Kindly note that Mr Malusi Gigaba has not been placed under arrest. He is engaging IDAC, and there will be no court appearance today. IDAC will not be commenting any further on the matter,” said IDAC spokesperson Henry Mamothame.
Gigaba, who was implicated at the Zondo Commission for allegedly interfering in Transnet affairs, has consistently maintained his innocence. Once a close ally of former president Jacob Zuma, Gigaba’s political fortunes declined following Zuma’s removal from office. He has since returned to Parliament as co-chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Defence.
The former Home Affairs and Public Enterprises minister recently courted controversy by publicly questioning the ANC’s coalition agreement with the Democratic Alliance, fuelling speculation that he may face internal disciplinary action.
If formally charged, Gigaba could be compelled to step aside from his ANC and parliamentary roles, rendering him ineligible for re-election at the ANC National Congress in 2027.
Earlier this week, IDAC head Andrea Johnson told Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee probing corruption, infiltration, and political interference in the criminal justice system that more high-profile arrests could soon follow.
“I wouldn’t want to get into those details, but yes, as these proceedings continue—and as the Madlanga Commission unfolds—we are watching. Where it is proven that people have done wrong things, there will certainly be arrests,” Johnson said in response to a question from EFF leader Julius Malema.
The developments mark yet another chapter in the ongoing investigations into state capture-era corruption, with renewed scrutiny falling on senior political figures implicated in the Zondo Commission’s findings.