First State witness in FS asbestos corruption matter set to take the stand

JOHANNESBURG - The first State witness is expected to take the stand in the fraud and corruption matter involving former Free State Premier Ace Magashule and controversial businessman Edwin Sodi.

Magashule, Sodi and 16 others, including businesses, face fraud, corruption and money laundering charges linked to a dodgy R255 million tender for the replacement of asbestos from 300,000 houses in Free State townships.

They have all pleaded not guilty to the charges.

After four years on the court roll with multiple delays, the Free State asbestos matter is finally ready for trial.

Last week, Judge Philip Loubser insisted that the matter should proceed despite requests by lawyers for the second accused, Free State housing director, Mahlomola Matlakala, who had only been appointed the week prior.

Judge Loubser only gave Advocate Thabani Mhlanga six days to familiarise himself with the case after he was appointed earlier in April.

"I do not have a docket in front of me. I do not have a docket and even if I were to have one right now, I do not have adequate time to prepare for this trial, my lord. I have only been briefed, and I made my first appearance on the 11th of April, let me say to you so that there can be no misunderstanding, I am not likely to postpone this matter to any date beyond next Tuesday."

On Wednesday morning, the State will call the first witness but has not said who that witness will be.

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