Brown Mogotsi Slams Fikile Mbalula

Brian Mogotsi, in an exclusive interview with SABC News, addresses allegations made against him and clarifies his standing with the ANC.

• ANC Membership: Mogotsi asserts that he is a member of the ANC in good standing, with his membership expiring in October. He refutes claims made by ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, stating that Mbalula lacks the authority to comment on his membership, as only his branch has that power. He emphasizes that ANC leaders are “produced by the ANC,” not the other way around.
• January 8th Celebrations and Donations: Mogotsi explains that the ANC’s January 8th function allows everyone to attend. He states that if a businessman assists with transport and accommodation for attendees, it doesn’t imply wrongdoing. He denies that any messages presented as evidence show him requesting money from a minister.
• Counter-Allegations Against Fikile Mbalula: Mogotsi challenges Mbalula’s own actions, noting that Mbalula arrived at a January 8th celebration in a lavish boat owned by a “foreign national company”. He questions if Mbalula declared this and suggests that accepting donations doesn’t automatically equate to criminal activity. He attempts to draw a parallel by asking if Mbalula should be questioned for traveling with Vusi Khekhe, who was later convicted and sentenced for murder. He also points out that Mbalula’s wife was implicated in a housing scandal where Mbalula was a direct beneficiary.
• Madlanga Commission and Ad Hoc Committee: Mogotsi confirms his readiness to appear before both the Madlanga Commission and the parliamentary ad hoc committee.
• Lack of Proof for Allegations: Mogotsi raises concerns about how the allegations against him will be proven, especially regarding cell phone messages, if Section 205 (which allows access to cell phones) is not utilized. He highlights that the ad hoc committee is “not empowered to correct facts” or “protect sources or informants,” indicating these functions fall under the commission.
• Business Dealings and Tenders: Mogotsi clarifies that he does not engage with government tenders. He mentions a past involvement where his foundation interdicted a process with the Department of Health and obtained a court order.
• Meeting with Senzo Mchunu and Regional Development: Mogotsi recalls a conversation with Minister Senzo Mchunu where he advocated for bringing the provincial headquarters (TTA) back to Mafikeng and suggested that the army’s headquarters should also return to Mafikeng to revive the local economy.