ANC boss Fikile Mbalula will on Thursday morning open a case of crimen injuria against businessman Mthunzi Mdwaba.
This comes after Mdwaba alleged that Mbalula was among ANC leaders who sent intermediaries to him to request a bribe to allow his R5-billion deal with UIF to go ahead.
The Sunday World broke the story of Mdwaba alleging that three ministers had sent people to him requesting a R500-million cut from the now frozen jobs creation deal with UIF.
Mdwaba then went on to Newzroom Afrika to add Mbalula’s name with that of ministers.
Mbalula took offence and announced on Wednesday that he will be taking legal action against the businessman.
ANC communications announced that Mbalula will be at the Sandton police station at 7am on Thursday.
“The secretary-general Fikile Mbalula will open crimen injuria case against Mthunzi Mdwaba at the Sandton police station,” the statement announced.
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, who is among the ministers fingered for the alleged extortion, has given Mdwaba seven days to retract and issue a public apology.
Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi has dismissed Mdwaba’s claims as “false” and a diversion strategy saying he was considering taking legal action.
Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande has remained mum while he faces similar allegations of looting at NSFAS.