By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Gauteng High Court has ruled in favour of newly elected Greater Johannesburg Regional Chairperson, Loyiso Masuku, in her defamation case.
The court found that allegations made about her on a podcast were unlawful and reckless.
Former ANC member Phapano Phasha accused Masuku during a podcast, that she was part of a “Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) cartel” and suggested she bought votes to beat Dada Morero for the regional chair position.
The current chairperson is part of the PPE cartel; she got a lot of money. It was quite easy for her to buy the conference. We know there were bags going around. I have been part of these processes since 2001. [Deputy President] Paul Mashatile and [ANC deputy secretary-general] Nomvula Mokonyane, who supported the faction that won — I am sure they are happy wherever they are,” Pasha said.
The conference was marred by allegations of bribery and vote-buying by those seeking a mandate to lead the organisation for the next three years, pointing to infighting in the region that could hurt the party in next year’s local government elections.
Masuku was elected as the ANC chairperson, replacing Morero.
Masuku’s husband Bandile and former presidential spokesperson Khusela Diko were embroiled in allegations of corruption over the awarding of a tender for personal protection equipment during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The ANC later cleared them of wrongdoing.
The court ordered the immediate removal of the podcast, a full retraction and apology, and barred any further publication of the claims.
The issue of damages has been referred for oral evidence, with costs awarded against the respondent.
The ANC has faced persistent allegations of vote-buying at its elective conferences The practice — often involving cash handouts, luxury accommodation, or other incentives to influence branch delegates.