Show goes on for Mashatile

In the theatre of South African politics, scandal is no longer a curtain call—it's part of the performance.

- Mandla Mthembu

Deputy President Paul Mashatile, draped in allegations ranging from diamond gifts to multimillion-rand mansions, remains not only politically unscathed, but increasingly central to the ANC's post-Ramaphosa future.

His ascent, shadowed by luxury ties and patronage whispers, offers a sobering portrait of a political culture where reputational damage is survivable and ambition thrives in the grey space between legality and legitimacy.

Mashatile's survival, despite mounting allegations, is not merely a testament to personal resilience—it's an indictment of a political system where scandal is absorbed, rather than punished.

For months, Mashatile has faced reports linking him to luxury homes in Cape Town and Johannesburg, including a Clifton mansion valued at R78 million and a Bryanston property associated with politically connected business figures.

Adding fuel to the fire, his son-in-law's company is under scrutiny for acquiring a R28.9 million Constantia property, while simultaneously defaulting on obligations tied to a government-backed housing development.