Manuel Chang to be extradited

MOZAMBIQUE’S former finance minister Manuel Chang is to be extradited to stand trial on charges related to a $2billion debt scandal, Justice Minister Michael Masutha said.

Chang has been in custody in South Africa since December when he was arrested at the request of the US for his alleged involvement in $2bn borrowing that US authorities said was fraudulent.

During his time as finance minister, Chang signed off on the loans, which were guaranteed by the government, although some were not disclosed. Mozambique’s subsequent acknowledgement of the undisclosed borrowing prompted donors to cut off support and triggered a currency collapse.

Masutha had to decide whether to have Chang extradited to Mozambique or the US following requests from both countries.

“I am satisfied the interests of justice will be best served by acceding to the request from Mozambique,” Masutha said.

Masutha said he considered in his decision that Chang was a citizen of Mozambique and had asked to be extradited to his home country, among other things.