The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) has formally added former Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba as the fifth accused in a high-profile corruption case involving former executives of state-owned rail operator Transnet.
The matter is being heard at the Palm Ridge Specialised Commercial Crime Court in Johannesburg.
The case has been postponed to 30 January 2026 to allow authorities to disclose the docket, provide an updated indictment, and schedule the transfer of the matter to the high court.
IDAC spokesperson Henry Mamothambe confirmed that Gigaba was issued a summons on November 7, 2025, and voluntarily appeared in court. His case has now been combined with those of the other accused.
Gigaba faces allegations related to the period between November 2010 and May 2014, when he served as Minister in the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) under former President Jacob Zuma. He is charged alongside Anoj Singh, former Group Chief Financial Officer of Transnet; Brian Molefe, former Group Chief Executive Officer; Siyabonga Gama, former CEO; and Thamsanqa Jiyane, former Chief Procurement Officer in Transnet’s Transport Freight Rail division.
The charges centre on Transnet’s acquisition of locomotives during this period, intended to expand and modernise South Africa’s rail infrastructure. The State alleges that tender processes were flouted, resulting in three irregularly awarded contracts for 95, 100, and 1,064 locomotives, collectively causing losses worth billions of rands.
Mamothame said that during his tenure as DPE Minister, Gigaba allegedly accepted undisclosed cash payments from members of the Gupta family, who wielded extensive political and business influence during Zuma’s presidency.
The Guptas were central figures in the state capture scandal, with investigations revealing that they secured lucrative government contracts and exerted influence over ministerial appointments. The State claims that Gigaba’s alleged payments were corrupt in nature and that he was not entitled. All accused have been presented with an updated charge sheet.
The Transnet case has drawn attention across Africa as it highlights concerns about governance, state capture, and corruption in major public enterprises. Holding high-level officials accountable is seen as essential for investor confidence and regional economic stability.
The next court date will focus on pre-trial procedures before the matter is transferred to the high court, as South Africa continues to address the legacy of state capture during Zuma’s presidency.
