Moroadi Cholota
By Thabo Mosia
Moroadi Cholota, the former personal assistant to the then Free State Premier Ace Magashule, is set to make her first appearance in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court today. Cholota, who has been extradited from the United States, faces charges of fraud and corruption related to the notorious R255 million Free State asbestos corruption case. This case, which has drawn national attention, is scheduled to resume in the Free State High Court in Bloemfontein from 15 April 2025 to 23 June 2025, involving 18 accused, including five companies.
Cholota’s extradition from the United States marked a significant development in this ongoing case. She arrived at OR Tambo International Airport on Friday, 8 August 2024, where she was met by a heavy police presence and a throng of media representatives, creating a spectacle that has since sparked widespread discussion.
The African Congress for Transformation (ACT) voiced strong criticism regarding the manner of her arrival, describing it as excessive. In a media release dated 9 August 2024, ACT stated, “Ms. Cholota does not pose any threat to anyone and did not merit the mistreatment she received. The police’s grandiose arrival at OR Tambo International Airport was only a theatrical display intended to scare an innocent woman who happens to be a mother.” The party also expressed concern over the timing of her return, noting that it coincided with Women’s Month and the eve of International Women’s Day, adding further sensitivity to the event.
Despite the controversy surrounding her arrival, ACT has welcomed Cholota’s return, expressing confidence in her ability to “present the truth as she knows it” in court. The party has publicly supported Cholota, commending her bravery in resisting what they describe as “blackmail” and “provocation” by the authorities. “She had a choice of signing the false statement that implicates Dr. Magashule and walk free, but she chose not to compromise her values and principles,” ACT asserted, reiterating their belief in her innocence.
Cholota’s arrest and extradition were the culmination of extensive efforts by the Hawks, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), and Interpol. Colonel Philani Nkwalase, spokesperson for the Hawks, and Mojalefa Senokoatsane, spokesperson for the NPA, confirmed in a joint statement on 8 August 2024 that the 37-year-old South African woman had been successfully extradited and placed under arrest following approval from USA authorities on 31 July 2024. Cholota, who was the personal assistant to Ace Magashule when the alleged crimes took place, was processed by Hawks detectives upon her arrival and is scheduled to appear in court on Monday, 12 August 2024.
The charges against Cholota stem from the Free State Department of Human Settlements’ awarding of the R255 million asbestos contract. The contract was awarded in a joint venture between businessman Edwin Sodi’s Blackhead Consulting (Pty) Ltd and Diamond Hill Trading without proper procurement processes being followed. The case has already seen several high-profile figures, including Magashule, former Head of Department Ntimose Mokhesi, and former MEC Sarah Mlamleli, making court appearances on charges of fraud, corruption, money laundering, and contravention of the Public Finance Management Act.
As the legal proceedings continue, the case is set to resume in the Free State High Court from April to June 2025, where the accused will face trial. This case, involving 18 accused individuals and five companies, has become a focal point in South Africa’s ongoing battle against corruption.
In light of Cholota’s court appearance, the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality has issued a public notice informing residents of road closures around the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court precinct. Qondile Khedama, the municipality’s spokesperson, announced that President Brand Street and Peet Avenue will be closed to ensure the smooth flow of traffic and to allow residents and motorists to continue with their daily activities with minimal disruption. The public has been advised to use alternative routes during the road closure, and the City has apologised for any inconvenience caused.
Read all our publications on magzter:
________________________
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
#centralnewsza
Read More⬇️⬇️