Public Protector urged to probe Liebenberg’s diamond gift
ActionSA has called for a formal investigation by the Public Protector into the questionable circumstances surrounding a diamond gift from Louis Liebenberg, a fraud-accused diamond smuggler, to Deputy President Paul Mashatile.
The party is seeking to establish whether this gift violates any ethical standards or breaches of the Executive Members’ Ethics Act.
IoL reports that Liebenberg, who faces over 40 charges including theft, fraud, money laundering, and racketeering, is known for illicitly trading in political favours.
Mashatile’s spokesperson Keith Khoza last month confirmed that Humile Mashatile was given an ‘unsolicited gift’ of a precious stone by Liebenberg.
‘Due to the nature of allegations made against the donor, the head of office decided that the gift be returned,’ Khoza said.
‘ActionSA believes serious questions arise about the Deputy President’s relationship with Louis Liebenberg, given the latter’s criminal background and known associations with corrupt individuals like Jacob Zuma,’ said ActionSA parliamentary leader Athol Trollip.
Article disclaimer: While we have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this article, it is not intended to provide final legal advice as facts and situations will differ from case to case, and therefore specific legal advice should be sought with a lawyer.
