The case against former eThekwini mayor Zandile Gumede and 21 others, charged with racketeering, fraud and corruption relating to a R320million city waste contract resumed in the Durban High Court on Monday.
Gumede pleaded not guilty to charges of fraud, corruption, money laundering, and racketeering. The trial finally got underway after numerous delays.
State prosecutor Ashika Lucken asked the group to plead, shortly after reading the indictment. They have all pleaded not guilty in the multimillion-rand corruption scandal.
Gumede has previously told her fans that she was innocent, and that the case against her was part of a plot to end her political career.
Advocate Jay Naidoo, who represents Gumede said his client wanted the trial to get underway and he would oppose any delay.
“We just want them (the state) to start [the trial] and lead their witnesses,” he said.
The accused include:
Former ANC senior councillor Mondli Mthembu;
Suspended municipal manager Sipho Nzuza and his wife, Bagcinele Cynthia Nzuza
Sandile Ngcobo, deputy head of supply management;
Robert Abbu, city deputy head of strategic and new developments; and
three ANC councillors: Mthokozisi Nojiyeza, Sdudozo Khuzwayo and Bhekokwakhe Phewa.
The companies which benefited from the contract (and their representatives) are:
Omphile Thabang Projects
Uzuzinekele Trading; and
El Shaddai Holdings Group CC.