This week is an update regarding the case I posted 2 weeks ago, the Department of Education Mpumalanga Schools Tender Fraud.
Recap
A director was arrested along with 37 others who are suspected to be allegedly involved in a R114 million schools tender fraud. The accused included senior government officials, service providers, tertiary students and two pastors. The tender was established during 2018 and 2019 as an emergency intervention to repair 21 schools in Mpumalanga.
Update
HAWKS confirmed that only 2 of the 38 accused did not appear in court on 26 March 2026.
Consolation Mdluli and Brigitt Mthalana, failed to appear in court. Their legal representatives referenced medical reasons for not being able to appear in court. The court has now authorised warrants of arrest for both individuals, which were conditionally withheld.
Brigitt Mthalana is expected to appear on 10 April 2026, while Consulation Mdluli is scheduled to return to court on 2 July 2026. If they fail to comply it may result in the execution of the warrants and possible forfeiture of bail.
Ruth Khoza was instructed to appoint private legal representation after she was found ineligible for Legal Aid due to her financial status.
They were previously granted bail as follows:
- Two students and a wheelchair bound accused were granted R5 000 bail.
- Three of the accused were granted R20 000 bail each
- One accused was granted R30 000 bail
- And the remaining 31 accused were granted R50 000 bail each.
This matter has been postponed to 2 July 2026 for docket and charge sheet disclosure. All of the accused are expected to appear in court in person.
DISCLAIMER! This content is for educational and informational purposes based on publicly available information.
Source: iNews