Is Magashule the right card to lead Free State again?

Calls are growing for former Free State Premier Ace Magashule to return and lead the province once again, according to the African Congress for Transformation (ACT). Former ANC secretary-general and premier from 2009 to 2018, Magashule has been embroiled in allegations of fraud, corruption, money laundering, and contravention of the Public Finance Management Act. These charges stem from a R255 million asbestos tender corruption case that occurred during his tenure as premier.

In May 2021, Magashule was suspended as ANC secretary-general and expelled from the party two years later. However, this did not deter ACT secretary-general Ntando Ngoma-Mbutuma, who praised Magashule for his potential to lead. She stated that there is a demand for him to lead, particularly in his hometown of Ngwathe, as well as in Matjhabeng, where she also believes he would be welcomed.

ACT supporters also believe that things were better under Magashule's leadership, suggesting that the opposition parties concur that the party was stronger during his tenure. Despite the dark clouds hanging over Magashule's head due to the allegations of corruption, Magashule himself has stated that he is available to serve. He further remarked that those criticizing his decision to move from high-profile positions to become mayor of a small town in the Free State lack understanding of politics and how to serve.

However, one must question whether the community, which is suffering from inadequate service delivery, can truly place their trust in a leader with such a tarnished reputation and a myriad of corruption allegations hanging over his head.