Sodi and Magashule corruption trial begins in Bloemfontein
The long-awaited corruption trial involving controversial businessman Edwin Sodi and former Free State Premier Ace Magashule began in the Free State High Court on Monday, drawing intense public scrutiny.
Sodi, along with Magashule and 16 co-accused, faces more than 70 charges including fraud, corruption, and money laundering. The case stems from a R255 million asbestos audit contract awarded in 2014 to Sodi’s company, Blackhead Consulting, in partnership with Diamond Hill Trading.
The project was intended to identify and remove asbestos roofing from homes in the province a task the state alleges was never properly undertaken.
Prosecutors claim the tender was unlawfully awarded, with millions siphoned off for personal enrichment. Among the allegations are bribes and kickbacks totaling R27 million to government officials.
Sodi has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Also appearing in court is Moroadi Cholota, Magashule’s former personal assistant, who was extradited from the United States in 2024 after being implicated in the alleged conspiracy.
In a dramatic turn of events, Sodi’s assets valued at R300 million were frozen in 2020 as part of the investigation. However, he has been permitted to continue residing at his Bryanston property.
This case has reignited public outrage over South Africa’s persistent struggles with corruption, particularly in state procurement processes.
Social media users have called it a symbol of entrenched impunity, especially given Sodi’s links to other controversial projects including the failed Rooiwal water treatment upgrade, which has been associated with the 2023 Hammanskraal cholera outbreak.
The trial is expected to run until June 2025, with many watching closely to see whether justice will be served in one of the country’s most high-profile corruption cases.
