Ex-minister cleans up his act
Scholarship helps female students
Disgraced former deputy minister of higher education Mduduzi Manana appears to be on a comeback trail following his much-publicised brush with the law.
Manana resigned as deputy minister in August before pleading guilty to charges of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm following an incident in which he assaulted two women.
He assaulted Mandisa Duma at Cubana nightclub in Fourways in August.
But now Manana’s Instagram page has showed how he has started winning other women’s hearts through his foundation. His actions can be interpreted as pushing to be elected into the ANC national executive committee in December.
He recently held a lunch with 10 beneficiaries of the Mduduzi Manana Foundation’s scholarship.
The beneficiaries, who are all women, were now training in fields such as aviation, engineering, IT and maritime.
In a video posted on Manana’s page on Friday, one of the women thanked him for assisting her to become a pilot.
“I ask that the Almighty bless you Mr former deputy minister Manana and thank you once again. I’d like to make a promise [that] once I’m done with my training I will fly you anywhere you want,” she said to loud cheers.
Manana and the beneficiaries were pictured in good spirits at a restaurant.
Among the posts was a thank you card signed by all, with a warm message for Manana. “Words cannot express how grateful we are for your help. We truly appreciate the positive influence you’ve had in our lives,” read the message.
Gender activist and TV personality Andile Gaelesiwe, who staged protests outside court during Manana’s appearances, said she doubted Manana’s sincerity.
“I don’t know how sincere that is, but I’m glad there are people who are benefiting, but for me what matters the most is what he does when nobody else is watching,” she said.
Manana, who is set to appear in court again on November 7, could not be reached for comment.
I ask that the Almighty bless you Mr Manana