Mapisa-Nqakula’s lawyer to seek discharge in her corruption case

Former Defence Minister and National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula's defence team plans to seek a discharge in her corruption case, according to their legal representatives. They argue that the prosecution has not presented a strong enough case to proceed, as stated in Section 174 of the Criminal Procedure Act. Mapisa-Nqakula is currently facing 12 counts of corruption and one count of money laundering in the High Court in Pretoria, with all counts against her.

She has chosen to plead not guilty to all charges. This announcement follows the state's decision to close its case in the trial. The defence has requested access to the court's transcribed records and has informed the court that they will file the discharge application. The High Court has delayed the matter until August 20th, giving the defence the opportunity to review the transcripts and prepare their application.

The State, in turn, will await the defence's heads of argument before drafting their response. Furthermore, the court has granted the SABC and eNCA permission to record and live broadcast the trial proceedings moving forward.