Businessman Edwin Sodi was frustrated when the asbestos corruption case was again postponed by the Free State High Court.
To the annoyance of businessman Edwin Sodi, the Free State High Court has again delayed the asbestos corruption case.
Businessman Edwin Sodi reportedly became frustrated when the Free State High Court continued to postpone proceedings, according to ENCA.
We had been waiting for the past four years. There is an additional delay. It’s annoying, but we’ll see what happens,” Sodi said to the ENCA.
The trial was originally set to start on June 14, but it has now been adjourned for pre-trial procedures. Sodi made a brief appearance in the Bloemfontein location of the High Court of South Africa: Free State Division among other defendants.
Trail Cancelled Due to a Movement of Circumstances
The trial has been postponed due to a variety of reasons, which were disclosed to Judge President of the Free State during the appearance.
The defense informed the judge that accused corporation number 5 was still without an attorney. The absence of Sarah Mlamleli, a former member of the Executive Council (MEC), was ascribed to sickness. She’s scheduled to appear in court in July of 2024.
The Prosecution disclosed that Moroadi Cholota, who is presently in the United States, has been placed under custody and is scheduled to appear in court on April 15th, marking a noteworthy step. The state intends to start the extradition procedure as soon as possible in order to return her to South Africa.
The court previously rejected a motion by Thabane Zulu, Blackhead Consulting, Edwin Sodi, and Magashule that sought to dismiss the case due to a lack of prima facie evidence. Charges against the accused include money laundering, corruption, fraud, and violating the Public Finance Management Act.
The Charges Marking Edwin Sodi Among the Accused
The Free State Department of Human Settlements issued an asbestos contract worth R255 million, which is the basis for these allegations. About six years ago, the joint venture Blackhead Consulting was given the contract.
The Citizen claims that Diamond Hill Trading, owned by Ignatius “Igo” Mpambani, and Sodi’s company, Blackhead Consulting, were given the asbestos audit contract by the Free State human settlements department. Sadly, in April 2018, Mpambani was shot and killed in Sandton.
It was later revealed that the work completed was only worth R21 million. In addition, another business with asbestos removal experience was hired to complete the work.
Both the accused and the prosecution have been frustrated by the case’s delays.
According to NPA spokesman Mojalefa Senokoatsane, “the matter has been postponed to 14 June 2024 for Pre-trial Conference that the Prosecuting Authority is hopeful will lead into parties (Prosecution and Defense) agreeing on a suitable date for the trial to commence.”
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