Step-aside victims plan next move

It appears that those likely to be forced to step aside by the ANC due to their implication in corruption already have their ducks in a row as they fight for survival.

The party’s national working committee (NWC) yesterday reaffirmed the decision of the national executive committee (NEC) on 26-29 March that all members who have been charged with corruption or other serious crimes must step aside within 30 days.

However, it looks as though those implicated already have their next move planned.

Former state security minister Bongani Bongo gave an indication of the next move shortly after his brief appearance at the Mbombela Magistrate’s Court yesterday.

Bongo, along with 11 others, is facing 69 counts of corruption, fraud, theft, money laundering, and the contravention of the Public Finance Management Act relating to a dubious 2011 multimillion-rand land deal.

Asked by eNCA’s Khayelihle Khumalo whether he was ready to step aside, Bongo said a court of law would decide his fate if it came to him being suspended.

“I have to this extent appealed this decision that was taken by the NEC and I am sure my appeal will be entertained,” said Bongo.

“We will look at other options, including approaching a court of law to have this thing dealt with differently because the rights of people are being encroached upon.

“You can’t just trample with those rights, so for our organisation to think that we must be punished because we have been brought into court is to prejudge and punish people before courts pronounce themselves.”

Bongo said that the constitution of the ANC should not override that of the republic.

“I think we have to do things in line with the constitution of the republic. Anyone is innocent until proven otherwise by a competent court of law.”

Bongo’s trial has been set for next January as the state finalises the charges.