- The Gupta family allegedly told former ANC Treasurer-General Mathews Phosa they donated R20 million to support former President Jacob Zuma.
- Phosa claims the donation was intended for the ANC, yet party records do not show the funds, implying potential misappropriation.
- Allegations of fund misuse add to mounting pressure on the ANC to clarify its stance on corruption as it approaches the upcoming general elections.
The Gupta family allegedly informed former ANC Treasurer-General Mathews Phosa that they had given R20 million to the party in support of former President Jacob Zuma, sparking fresh allegations of financial misconduct. Phosa, who served as the ANC Treasurer-General from 2007 to 2012, stated that members of the Gupta family approached him about the donation. The funds were allegedly intended to bolster the ANC’s resources ahead of the elections, yet the party’s records reportedly show no indication of the funds being received, raising concerns that the money may have been misappropriated.
According to Phosa, the Guptas made it clear that the money was meant to support the ANC, but there was no formal acknowledgment or record indicating the transfer of funds to the party’s accounts. This revelation has fueled speculation about potential fund misappropriation, potentially implicating Zuma, who has previously faced accusations of benefitting from his close relationship with the Guptas.
The Gupta family, known for wielding significant influence over government decision-making during Zuma’s tenure, has been at the center of multiple allegations of corruption and state capture. This latest accusation could add weight to the findings of the Zondo Commission’s state capture report, which implicated the Guptas in exerting undue influence on Zuma and other officials.
Phosa’s disclosure arrives as the ANC grapples with escalating public criticism over alleged financial mismanagement and corruption. The party is under growing pressure to address corruption concerns and reclaim public confidence ahead of the next general elections.
ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri responded to Phosa’s remarks, saying, “We take any reports of misappropriating party finances seriously and will investigate any valid claims.” However, Zuma’s lawyer dismissed Phosa’s statements as baseless, asserting that Zuma denies any wrongdoing in his dealings with the Guptas, stating, “Once again, there is no evidence to support this attempt to tarnish his image.”
As public scrutiny mounts, the ANC faces calls for reform to prevent the misuse of party resources, with pressure building for the party to clarify its position on past allegations of corruption. With elections on the horizon, the ANC may find itself under increased pressure to address these claims to restore public trust.
