Riyaz Patel
Ace Magashule’s former personal assistant described to the state capture commission Friday how she would solicit donations from business people which was then handed out to people who had approached the premier’s office for handouts.
Moroadi Cholota, who served as Magashule’s aide during his tenure as Free State Premier, testified the premier’s office was often approached by students or cultural groups seeking donations to support their activities or events.
Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo sought clarity.
“If the relevant government department didn’t have money to assist or could not assist for whatever reason, and the office of the premier was also unable to assist; then business people would be approached by the office of the premier?” Zondo asked.
“Correct sir,” Cholota said in response.
Cholota’s name first emerged during the evidence of the former Free State economic development MEC, Mxolisi Dukwana, who alleged that Magashule’s office was used to source funds from businesses.
There was no suggestion that she thought this arrangement was irregular nor was she asked to comment on whether it was improper.
Cholota was the last witness to testify at the commission this year.
The hearings are scheduled to resume on 13 January 2020.
