Kodwa not off the hook yet

The office of the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) says it will be reviewing the decision by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to withdraw charges against former Sport, Arts and Culture Minister, Zizi Kodwa. 

Kodwa and his co-accused walked out of court free men earlier after successfully convincing prosecutors to have the charges against them dropped.

He was accused of receiving R1.6 million bribes during his tenure as ANC spokesperson from former EOH boss, Jehan Mackay, who was with him in the dock.

While the NPA delve into reasons for its decision to let them off the hook, it said the change of heart was brought about by new developments.

NPA Spokesperson, Phindi Mjonondwana, also intimated that those who were unhappy with the decision could appeal.

“The DPP was duty bound to take into account that the prospects of a successful prosecution have diminished, owing to the change in circumstances, brought about by new developments that came to light, despite an initial decision to institute a prosecution,” she said.

Kodwa has welcomed the withdrawal of charges against him after a grueling five-month battle to clear his name.

Outside court, he told journalists that he plans to return to active politics.

Visibly emotional, he thanked some ANC members for their unwavering support throughout the challenging period.

He highlighted ANC Youth League leader, Collen Malatji, and former President Kgalema Motlanthe for giving him calls during his time of distress.

In June, Kodwa resigned as a member of the ANC National Executive Committee (NEC) and as the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture amid the fraud and corruption scandal.

“I am available, I can apply anywhere. I am in the job market as you know I am unemployed,” he said.

ActionSA was one of the opposition parties who were unhappy with the NPA’s U-turn on the Kodwa matter.

Welcoming the pending review of the dropping of the charges, the party expressed concern over the NPA’s prosecutorial conduct, saying in this instance it appears questionable and reflects growing worries about the inadequate pursuit of corruption cases, especially against high-profile people.