Former Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula allegedly received between R2.1 million and R2.15 million in cash bribes from a defence contractor between 2016 and 2019, the Gauteng High Court in Pretoria heard on 27 July 2026. Witness Nombasa Ntsondwa-Ndhlovu testified that she frequently delivered large sums of cash to the former minister’s residence, detailing how she used coded language to facilitate the transactions.
Testimony On The Logistics Of Bribery
Ntsondwa-Ndhlovu told the court she became trapped in a cycle of payments after discovering a bag containing approximately R400,000 hidden beneath a wig in her home. She sought the support of her sister, Andiswa, to assist in navigating the situation and delivering the funds to the accused.
I found Andiswa already waiting for me as she usually did. She got into the vehicle, and we proceeded to the accused’s house. I told Andiswa that I have a problem. I started from when the whole thing started, where now I find myself not being able to come out of it.
The State alleges that Mapisa-Nqakula demanded a total of R4.5 million throughout the three-year period. These payments were reportedly solicited in exchange for political influence and assistance regarding South African National Defence Force (SANDF) tenders.
Legal Proceedings And Allegations
Mapisa-Nqakula, who also served as the National Assembly Speaker, has pleaded not guilty to all 12 counts of corruption and one count of money laundering. The trial, which commenced on 22 July 2026, has seen multiple witnesses testify about cash deliveries and the funding of luxury home renovations allegedly tied to the illicit payments.
The State continues to present its case through testimonies from contractors and officials involved in the alleged schemes. Further proceedings are expected to examine the specific financial documentation and communication logs linked to the accused. Verification status: Confirmed through court records and witness testimony from the 27 July 2026 session.