LETTER TO MAHLAMBA NDLOPFU: The villains, heroes and zeroes of the Republic of the Gupta
The Republic of the Gupta was never built merely by … crooks carrying cash in brown envelopes. Respectable people built it with access cards. People who sign… People who look away. People who know a guy.
The Republic of the Gupta was constructed not by mere criminals, but by respectable individuals wielding access cards. These individuals include those who sign, approve, look away, and know someone influential. Chief Dwasaho and the Madlanga Commission have been on recess, leaving daytime television useless. With the Madlanga Commission resuming, an audit of the Republic's heroes, villains, and zeroes is due.
Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi played a pivotal role in announcing the criminal justice system's infiltration. Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga and commissioners Sesi Baloyi, Sesi Baloyi, and Sandile Khumalo SC led the commission's efforts to uncover the truth. They relied heavily on evidence such as WhatsApp messages, audio recordings, and bank account details.
The commission has referred 17 individuals for investigation, suspended deputy national police commissioner Shadrack Sibiya, Witness G, and Brown Mogotsi, while also referring Organised Crime Unit Sergeant Fannie Nkosi. At least eight suspensions and 11 arrests have already taken place, with one criminal charge laid against Suliman Carrim for failing to appear.
Major General Richard Shibiri, Brigadier Rachel Matjeng, Lesetja Senona, and Major General Feroz Khan have all been dismissed or resigned due to their involvement in the scandal. The commission requires medical assessments for Major General Feroz Khan, with the medical certificate becoming a symbol of the Republic's fitness for testimony.
The commission identified the alleged Big Five cartel, consisting of Katiso "KT" Molefe, Steve Motsumi, Ignatius Mothakathi, "King Nyambose" Mthethwa, and the late Jothan "Mswazi" Msibi. These individuals are linked by extensive relationships and connections within the Republic of the Gupta. Suspended Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department deputy chief Julius "Blue Light Blesser" Mkhwanazi is also a central figure in the investigation.
The audit reveals that the Republic of the Gupta was not built solely by spectacular crooks, but by respectable people wielding access cards, signing approvals, and looking away from wrongdoing. State Capture did not disappear when the Guptas left the country; it has merely evolved into a system where respectable individuals, such as politicians, businessmen, and others, contribute to the ongoing corruption.
Written by urgent.news from Daily Maverick's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
