Corruption-accused Mapisa-Nqakula allegedly demanded R300k ‘wig’ payment

PRETORIA – Former National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula allegedly demanded a R300,000 payment described as “wig” money, according to testimony presented in the Pretoria High Court as her corruption and money laundering case continued.

The allegation forms part of the State’s case against Mapisa-Nqakula, who is facing multiple counts of corruption and money laundering. She has pleaded not guilty to all charges and denies any wrongdoing. Reports indicate the alleged payment was discussed during evidence relating to payments allegedly solicited from a defence contractor.

Alleged R300,000 payment

According to the State, evidence presented before the court suggests that Mapisa-Nqakula allegedly requested a payment of R300,000, which was referred to as “wig” money during communications examined by investigators.

Prosecutors argue that the payment formed part of a series of alleged cash requests made while Mapisa-Nqakula served as South Africa’s Minister of Defence and Military Veterans.

The court heard that investigators are relying on witness testimony, financial records and electronic communications to support the allegations.

State alleges pattern of corruption

The National Prosecuting Authority alleges that Mapisa-Nqakula received or solicited millions of rand in cash from a defence contractor in exchange for favourable treatment relating to defence procurement.

The prosecution argues that the alleged payments occurred over several years and formed part of a broader pattern of corrupt conduct.

The former Speaker has consistently denied the allegations and maintains that the State’s case lacks merit.

Defence rejects allegations

Mapisa-Nqakula’s legal team has challenged the credibility of the State’s evidence and the testimony presented by key witnesses.

Her lawyers argue that the allegations remain unproven and that the prosecution will have to establish every element of the offences beyond a reasonable doubt.

They are expected to continue challenging the admissibility and reliability of evidence presented during the proceedings.

High-profile corruption case

The case has attracted significant national attention because Mapisa-Nqakula previously served in several senior government positions, including as Minister of Defence before becoming Speaker of the National Assembly.

She resigned as Speaker in 2024 after the corruption allegations emerged and has since been defending herself in court.

The proceedings are being closely watched as one of the country’s most prominent corruption prosecutions involving a former senior government official.

Court proceedings continue

The Pretoria High Court is expected to continue hearing evidence as prosecutors build their case.

The court has not made any findings regarding the allegations surrounding the alleged R300,000 “wig” payment, and they remain claims made by the prosecution that will be tested during the trial.

Mapisa-Nqakula remains presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

The matter has been postponed for the continuation of legal proceedings, with further witness testimony expected when the case resumes.