Nkomo-Ralehoko praises Mbete for supporting Mapisa-Nqakula

MEC also backs ex-speaker accused of corruption

- By Mawande AmaShabalala

Gauteng ANC deputy coordinator Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko has commended ANC veteran Baleka Mbete for supporting former speaker of Parliament Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, whom she called a sister and a mentor who should not be judged unfairly.

Nkomo-Ralehoko. “I do communicate with uSisi (Mapisa-Nqakula), and she communicates with me. I am still her child more than anything else.

“It is a pity that she had to experience this unfortunate situation because she is a principled person; she is a strong woman who has made some of us the people we are today.”

Nkomo-Ralehoko said she was pleased that those close to Mapisa-Nqakula had not abandoned her during her darkest hour. She specifically mentioned former speaker Baleka Mbete, who is Mapisa-Nqakula’s long-time friend and the only ANC politician to go to court to support her.

“I have a huge respect for uSisi (Mapisa-Nqakula); whatever happens, I will never forget what she did for me because I developed under her and Sis'Baleka (Mbete). I am happy they are very close and have maintained that relationship until now.”

The MEC says she believes Mapisa-Nqakula will emerge unscathed from the case in which she faces 12 counts of corruption and one count of money laundering.