Cape Town — Former Johannesburg mayor, Kabelo Gwamanda, says allegations levelled against him are politically motivated, adding that he is not aware of any victims who have been affected.
Gwamanda made another appearance on Tuesday in the Protea Magistrate’s Court in Soweto where his case was postponed to January 2025. He faces charges of fraud after he allegedly defrauded Soweto residents through a funeral policy scheme.
The charges come from a Financial Sector Conduct Authority investigation revealing he allegedly operated an illegal business in 2012.
Speaking after his court appearance, Gwamanda told SABC News that he would cooperate with authorities but he maintained that no one was affected by the allegations he is accused of.
“It’s a problem when you speak of victims but there aren’t any as of yet. The only victims that exist are in Mpho Phalatse’s head, as well as the narratives in the media. Hence, from inception, I undertook bold allegations to stand and to face up to any allegations they seek to level against me,” Gwamanda said.
He reiterated that the case against him was a personal attack against him.
“The reason why I am here, it will soon come to light. Those who need to be held to account will be held to account for the crimes they have committed against the residents in the City of Johannesburg. They are trying to portray young black leaders as criminals,” he added.
Gwamanda’s case was postponed to January next year ahead of a trial readiness certificate as the defence feels the case has been delayed unnecessarily.
The defence said the case has been open since May 2023 and was disappointed that the charge sheet and documents received were incomplete.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said Gwamanda will face fraud charges despite his claims.
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Compiled by Matthew Petersen
