1 month ago
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The appearance in court yesterday of Ace Magashule’s former PA, Moroadi Cholota, is a significant moment in the quest for justice over the alleged corruption related to the R255m Free State asbestos project.
Cholota, who appeared in the Bloemfontein magistrate’s court, was successfully extradited from the US last week. The state alleges that she was initially meant to be a state witness in the case but made an about-turn when investigators visited her in the US.
She has since been charged with fraud, corruption and money laundering alongside 16 other accused in the matter. The state has alleged senior officials in the Free State government received kickbacks from money meant to rid the province of asbestos in the homes of the poor. The R255m project was awarded to ANC benefactor Edwin Sodi’s company during Magashule’s tenure as premier.
Though Cholota protested her innocence during her appearance in court yesterday, her extradition and charging ought to give confidence in the rule of law and pursuit of justice in the long-standing case. According to the state, the process to extradite Cholota began two years ago. This further demonstrates that while it may take time to get those wanted for accountability for their alleged crimes, the long arm of the law extends far beyond reach.
