The Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg has reserved judgment in a defamation case brought by newly elected ANC Johannesburg chairperson Loyiso Masuku against a former party member.
Masuku is seeking an interdict and R250,000 in damages from Phapano Pasha, who alleged in a podcast that Masuku is part of a “PPE cartel” and bought votes to win the regional conference. Masuku’s husband was previously implicated in a PPE tender scandal but was cleared by the ANC.
In court, Pasha’s lawyer argued she was repeating public commentary already made by other political figures. Masuku’s legal representative countered that Pasha’s statements were uniquely directed at Masuku and contained specific, unproven allegations of criminality.
The judge will deliver a ruling at a later date. The case highlights ongoing tensions and allegations of money politics within the ANC.