Johannesburg, June 11, 2024 — Brian Molefe, former CEO of Eskom and Transnet, has experienced a partial legal reprieve after Corruption Watch withdrew its case against him. The Pretoria High Court confirmed the withdrawal, marking a significant development in Molefe’s long-running legal battles.
Corruption Watch Withdraws Case
Corruption Watch’s case against Molefe, which accused him of gross negligence and breach of duty, was withdrawn by mutual agreement, with both parties agreeing to bear their own legal costs. Molefe has consistently maintained his innocence, asserting that the allegations were politically motivated and part of a larger smear campaign.
Molefe’s Tenure and Controversies
Molefe’s tenure at Eskom, where he served as acting CEO from April 2015 before his permanent appointment in September 2015, was marked by significant operational improvements, including financial stabilization and reduced load shedding. Eskom reported a substantial net profit increase to R4.6 billion in the financial year ending March 2016, attributed to higher electricity tariffs and cost control measures.
However, his career has been overshadowed by multiple legal issues. In 2018, the High Court ruled that Molefe’s R30 million pension payout was unlawful, a decision upheld by the Supreme Court of Appeal in 2019. Additionally, his reappointment as Eskom CEO in 2017 was declared unlawful by the Pretoria High Court in January 2018.
Ongoing Legal Battles
Despite this recent court victory, Molefe’s legal troubles are far from over. He is still implicated in a major fraud and corruption case related to Transnet, involving a R400 million tender. Alongside former Transnet executives Anoj Singh, Siyabonga Gama, and others, Molefe faces charges of fraud, corruption, and money laundering stemming from the irregular procurement of 1,064 locomotives in 2012. The case has been postponed to June 29, 2024.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) continues to scrutinize the defendants’ roles in these transactions, highlighting ongoing efforts to hold individuals accountable for state capture and corruption.
Future Legal Proceedings
As Molefe prepares for his upcoming court appearances, the legal community and the public alike are watching closely. The recent withdrawal of Corruption Watch’s case may bolster his defense, but the extensive charges related to his tenure at Transnet represent a significant legal hurdle. The next phase of this high-profile case will likely play a crucial role in determining Molefe’s future and the broader fight against corruption in South Africa.
