Rubben Mohlaloga, the former Deputy President of the ANC Youth League, has been ordered to serve a 20-year prison sentence after his final appeal was dismissed by the Supreme Court of Appeal.
Mohlaloga was convicted of fraud and money laundering for stealing R6 million from a Land Bank fund designed to support emerging black farmers. The money was instead used to finance luxury purchases.
The court upheld the sentence, stating it was appropriate given the serious nature of the crime and the major breach of public trust. Mohlaloga was a prominent figure, having served as a Member of Parliament and later as the chairperson of the country’s communications regulator, ICASA.
His imprisonment is seen as a significant ruling in the fight against corruption, particularly the theft of public funds meant to help disadvantaged communities. Civil society groups have welcomed the decision, stating it is a victory for justice and for the small farmers who were robbed of opportunities.
The case serves as a strong warning to other public officials as South Africa continues to confront widespread corruption scandals. With the appeal process over, Mohlaloga is expected to begin serving his sentence immediately.