Government welcomes Vincent Smith’s sentence

Government has welcomed the seven-year prison sentence handed down to former ANC MP Vincent Smith.

The Johannesburg High Court sentenced Smith following its verdict on charges of fraud and corruption, linked to receiving kickbacks from facilities management company, BOSASA.

Smith pleaded guilty to charges including contravention of the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities as well as the Income Tax Act. This follows recommendations of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, led by Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo.

Deputy Government Spokesperson William Baloyi says, “The Commission played a critical role in uncovering wrongdoing and recommending institutional reforms to strengthen accountability and rebuild public trust. Smith’s sentencing also reflects the government’s commitment, as articulated by President Cyril Ramaphosa in the 2026 State of the Nation Address, to intensify the fight against corruption and ensure that those who abuse public resources are held accountable.”

Spokesperson for the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption Henry Mamothame says, “He was effectively sentenced to 12 years on each of the counts, with each suspended for five years on condition that he doesn’t commit the same offence during the suspension period. Smith will thus serve seven-year direct imprisonment for his involvement in criminality.”