“It Was Not Bribe Money”: Mapisa-Nqakula Rejects Claims Over R300,000 Cash and Russian Rug
Former South African defence minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula has strongly denied allegations that she received R300,000 in cash that was allegedly concealed beneath a wig, as she faced intense questioning over corruption-related accusations.
Mapisa-Nqakula was subjected to detailed cross-examination as questions were raised about alleged cash payments and other benefits she was purportedly linked to during her time in government. She rejected the allegations and maintained that she did not receive the money in the manner claimed.
The former minister disputed the evidence put to her during questioning and challenged the circumstances surrounding the alleged payment. Her position remains that the claims against her do not accurately reflect what happened.
One of the issues raised during the proceedings concerned an alleged R300,000 cash payment. The allegation has attracted considerable attention because of claims that the money was concealed beneath a wig. Mapisa-Nqakula denied receiving the cash and rejected any suggestion that the alleged transaction represented a bribe.
She was also questioned about an alleged Russian bearskin rug, which was raised as part of the broader allegations concerning benefits she may have received. Mapisa-Nqakula firmly denied purchasing such a rug and disputed the suggestion that it formed part of any improper benefit.
Another area of questioning focused on travel allowances she received while serving in government. Mapisa-Nqakula defended her decision to retain the allowances, arguing that she was entitled to the money. She rejected suggestions that keeping the funds amounted to improper financial conduct.
The questioning forms part of a wider legal battle surrounding allegations of corruption and financial misconduct dating back to her tenure as defence minister. Prosecutors have sought to establish whether she received money, gifts or other benefits improperly, while Mapisa-Nqakula has consistently denied wrongdoing.
The former minister’s responses during cross-examination have centred on challenging both the allegations and the interpretation of evidence presented against her. She has maintained that the claims should not be treated as proof of misconduct and has disputed the circumstances surrounding the alleged payments and benefits.
The case has drawn significant public attention because of the senior political position previously held by Mapisa-Nqakula and the nature of the allegations being examined. However, the claims remain contested, with Mapisa-Nqakula maintaining her denial as the legal proceedings continue.
The latest questioning is expected to remain a key part of the effort to establish the facts surrounding the alleged payments, travel allowances and other benefits at the centre of the case.
