WATCH: Mbalula responds to IDT CEO’s attempt to bribe journalist

African National Congress (ANC) secretary-general Fikile Mbalula has weighed in on the R60,000 bribery scandal involving the Independent Development Trust (IDT).

The IDT’s suspended CEO, Tebogo Malaka, and spokesperson Phasha Makgolane allegedly attempted to bribe a Daily Maverick journalist to halt an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption.

An exposé, accompanied by images from the encounter, was published this morning, 6 August. The publication obtained video footage and audio clips from the meeting.

MBALULA SAYS LAW MUST DEAL WITH CORRUPTION

During a media briefing on the outcomes of the ANC’s National Executive Committee meeting, Mbalula addressed the alleged bribery attempt. He stated that if Malaka and Makgolane are found guilty, they must face the full force of the law.

“All those implicated in corruption; the law must deal with them. It doesn’t matter who they are,” said Mbalula.

WATCH| ANC Secretary- General Fikile Mbalula reacts to #IDT CEO Tebogo Malaka and spokesperson Phasha Makgolane bribing a journalist. pic.twitter.com/73A6djOkXG

— Queenin Masuabi (@Queenin_M) August 6, 2025

IDT LINKED TO DODGY DEALINGS

According to its website, the IDT is a Schedule 2 state-owned entity. It is responsible for managing and implementing infrastructure programmes on behalf of the government.

Malaka was suspended by the IDT’s board of trustees following irregularities in an R800 million oxygen plant tender. Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has recommended disciplinary action against Malaka and other implicated officials.

According to the Daily Maverick, the publication has also been probing Malaka’s property dealings and her alleged ties to an IDT contractor.

WHAT DO YOU THINK SHOULD HAPPEN TO PUBLIC OFFICIALS WHO TRY TO SILENCE JOURNALISTS?

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