AfriForum writes to NPA to privately prosecute Oscar Mabuyane

Lobby group AfriForum has written to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to request it to privately prosecute Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane and ANC NEC member Babalo Madikizela.

The matter relates to the alleged misappropriation of funds used to transport mourners to the funeral of struggle stalwart Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, who died in April 2018.

It is alleged that Mabuyane received R450 000 that he used to pay for renovations to his private house.

Madikizela was allegedly paid R350 000 through his wife’s company and R280 000 was paid into the ANC’s fundraising account.

The funds were allegedly siphoned from the Mbizana Local Municipality.

The High Court in Bisho had set aside the matter and the NPA later declined to prosecute.

AfriForum’s Barry Bateman says there is evidence against the Premier.

“AfriForum’s Private Prosecution Unit believes there is overwhelming evidence and a compelling case for prosecution. We do not share the prosecutor’s view that the evidence does not justify any criminal prosecution. We cannot avoid concluding that the NPA’s failure to make a decision is based more on the political implications and consequences of such a decision that the duty of prosecution without fear of favour or prejudice.”

Meanwhile, Mabuyane says he is unfazed. 

“No comment. The court issues are dealt with in court, not elsewhere. l have never applied for any representation. l gave them five years – they investigated for five years, the NPA arrived at that decision. So, it’s no comment on that one – those ones are just playing games. The fact that they made it coincide with the visit of the President, they are trying to create a narrative on real issues. Our people are suffering, those people are busy collapsing the country.”