Johannesburg – Former Minister of Public Enterprises, Malusi Gigaba, has been formally charged in connection with the massive corruption scandal surrounding Transnet's locomotive procurement deals. This comes after a summons was issued earlier this month, requiring him to appear in court.
Gigaba Joins Transnet Executives in the Dock
Gigaba now stands as the fifth accused in the ongoing Transnet corruption case, joining former Transnet executives Brian Molefe, Anoj Singh, Siyabonga Gama, and Thamsanqa Jiyane. The case has been postponed until 30 January 2026, allowing time for further investigation and preparation.
Allegations of Corruption During Tenure as Public Enterprises Minister
The charges against Gigaba relate to the period between November 2010 and May 2014, during his time as Minister of Public Enterprises. It is alleged that tender processes were flouted during the acquisition of locomotives to expand and modernize South Africa's rail infrastructure, leading to three irregularly awarded contracts. These contracts, for 95, 100, and 1,064 locomotives, are said to have cost Transnet billions of rands.
- Gigaba is accused of accepting undisclosed cash amounts from the Gupta family.
- The state alleges these payments were corrupt in nature.
- The payments were allegedly received during his tenure as minister.
The National Prosecuting Authority’s Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (Idac) confirmed Gigaba's addition to the case. The investigation continues to unfold, promising further developments in the new year.