By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The suspended African National Congress (ANC) secretary-general Ace Magashule expected back in court , he insists the National Prosecution Authority (NPA) has no case against him.
Magashule is expected to appear at the Free State High Court in Bloemfontein for a pretrial hearing on Monday.
He is facing 21 charges of fraud and corruption related to the R225 million asbestos removal tender during his tenure as premier.
Magashule is out on R200 000 bail alongside his co-accused.
He said he saw a headline which read “Magashule is delaying” but he said this was not the case.”
“I am ready for the court. We have been asking the NPA [about] the prosecution. Remember, by law, we are entitled to the information. I am charged with what? Are there witnesses? Who are the witnesses?” Magashule said
In recent weeks, the eBuhleni Shembe Church in Joburg has held special prayer sessions for him ahead of his corruption trial.
On Wednesday, Magashule attended a thanksgiving service hosted by the church where its members could be seen embracing and welcoming him.
Magashule said his testimony at his trial would prove the case against him was political.
“This is a political trial. And we will prove with time that this is a political trial. That is why I want to be in the box so that South Africans can know the truth. I have been out there for many years, and in my last years, I am suddenly accused. This is genuinely a political trial. They even prepared statements from some people to try and implicate me,” Magashule said.
In his last appearance, Magashule said he did not know he was dragged into the case, saying he had done nothing wrong.