Magashule slams ex-PA's dramatic 'Hollywood' return

THE leader of the African Congress for Transformation (ACT) and former premier of the Free State, Ace Magashule, has welcomed the long-overdue extradition of his former personal assistant, Moroadi Cholota, who was extradited from the United States of America to South Africa on Friday, 9 August.

Magashule believes that the long-dragging asbestos case will finally be processed, and Cholota will have the opportunity to present her side in the Free State High Court, similar to her testimony at the Zondo Commission.

Cholota is expected to be among the accused in the controversial asbestos project, which involved the irregular awarding of a R255 million contract for the removal of asbestos roofs in the Free State in 2014.

Magashule, along with prominent businessman Edwin Sodi, former provincial human settlements MEC Olly Mlamleli, and others, are accused in this multimillion-rand asbestos project scandal.

On the other hand, Magashule has condemned the heavily armed Interpol officers, police, and National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for treating Cholota like a dangerous terrorist who poses a threat to society.

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"We strongly condemn the Hollywood-esque extradition of Cholota, during which she was surrounded by heavily armed Interpol officers, police, and the NPA, as if they were escorting a terrorist. Cholota doesn't pose any threat to anyone and didn't merit the mistreatment she received. The police's extravagant arrival at OR Tambo International Airport was only a theatrical display intended to scare an innocent woman who happens to be a mother. Regrettably, this occurrence takes place during the month dedicated to women and on the eve of International Women's Day," he said.

Magashule highlighted that the police and NPA were essentially engaging in a facade, especially following the collapse of the Estina Dairy Farm case. He claimed they trampled on Cholota's rights to claw back some dignity and create a media frenzy, disregarding the innocent woman's rights.

"We have received information indicating that Cholota was subjected to assault and harassment by the FBI, Interpol, and South African police in order to threaten her into signing a statement that falsely incriminates me. She has remained steadfast, as evidenced by her confident and undeterred act during her entrance at the airport. She walked with poise and was unaffected by the presence of media cameras, displaying her unwavering conviction in the truth and her willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice for it. We appreciate the courage displayed by individuals like Mama Winnie Mandela," said Magashule.