Mkhize denies ‘dodgy deal’ claims in report

Cape Town – Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Zweli Mkhize is consulting lawyers over a newspaper report yesterday claiming he was involved in corruption.

The Sunday Times article, “Zweli Mkhize linked to R4.5 million dodgy deal”, he said “attempts to allege I facilitated a loan from the Public Investment Corporation (PIC).

“I also received questions from the Sunday Times asking if I have a relationship with Zonkizizwe Investments and whether I facili- tated a PIC loan for Afric Oil.

“I made it clear I have never facilitated such a loan and I have no relationship with Zonkizizwe.

“I have also now learnt – from the article – that lawyers have instituted action against certain parties wherein my name is mentioned.

“I have not seen such a lawyer’s letter, nor is there any action pending against me or by me on such a matter.”

He said he had not been provided with any evidence that implicated him.

“Interestingly, despite the Sunday Times establishing that a person has confirmed having facilitated this PIC loan, the newspaper still elected to make the entire front page headline revolve around me.

“In my view, this can only be intended to tarnish and defame my name without much substance.

“I will immediately seek legal advice on how to deal with this matter and the recourse I can get.

“I categorically deny having facilitated any PIC loan for Afric Oil. In my tenure as the ANC treasurer-general, I met with various companies who would brief me on their operations, strategies or plans.

“This is no way meant that my intervention was required. At no stage did I enter into an agreement to facilitate loans for a fee.”

The Sunday Times reported that a Johannesburg law firm’s letter of demand had exposed an alleged R4.5 million kickback for the former ANC treasurer-general and other ANC supporters for helping an oil company get a huge PIC loan. – ANA