By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Former Public Enterprises Minister Dr. Malusi Gigaba alongside Brian Molefe, Anoj Singh, Siyabonga Gama and Thamsanqa Jiyane, appeared at the Johannesburg High Court on Friday, 08 May 2026.
They face corruption charges linked to irregular locomotive contracts at Transnet.
The state allege that tender processes were flouted and that three contracts were irregularly awarded for the supply of 95, 100 and 1,064 locomotives, resulting in losses amounting to billions of rands for the state-owned freight logistics company
During the proceedings, Gigaba’s attorney, Nicholas Kourie, confirmed that they have received the state docket, comprising documentation and digital material.
He further indicated their intention to utilise the appropriate procedural mechanisms to obtain further clarity on aspects of the indictment and the evidentiary framework relied upon by the state.
“As part of this process, the legal team intends to consult with Dr Gigaba and obtain instructions on whether or not the legal team will file a Request for Further Particulars ton ensure that the defence is placed in a position to prepare properly and respond appropriately to the charges as framed, and/or whether representations will be submitted,” said Kourie.
He further confirmed that procedural matters relating to legal representation had now been resolved, following the identification of a potential conflict-of-interest issue involving an individual whom the state has now confirmed as a witness in the matter.
Judge Mahomed Ismail postponed the matter to 10 July 2026 and said that the trial was unlikely to begin before 2027.
The National Prosecuting Authority’s Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) spokesperson Henry Mamothame said the matter was postponed.
Mamothame said the court ordered that the docket comparison be completed before 30 July 2026.
He added that the state and defence teams have agreed to submit a formal pretrial timeline by 15 May 2026. This timeline will address pretrial issues, including potential applications for further particulars, and will also set dates for the trial.