State defends delay in R37m corruption case involving former KwaZulu Natal D-G

THE State says it is not responsible for the delay in the R37 million corruption and intimidation case involving former KZN Premier's office Director General, Dr Nonhlanhla Mkhize, and 11 others.

- NOMONDE ZONDI

Attorneys for the accused have applied for the matter to be struck off the roll in the Durban High Court due to the delay, which they said is prejudicial to their clients.

The matter relates to the hiring of a legal panel for Mhlathuze Water some years ago. It is alleged that some of the accused colluded to have a certain law firm appointed as part of this panel and to ensure that the latter was entitled to 80% of the work that needed to be done.

The State says the alleged fraud, estimated at R37 million, was uncovered during an internal audit, with allegations that the other accused allegedly interfered with a subsequent investigation into the matter.

State prosecutor Mzwamadoda Mnyani yesterday said the State was not to blame for the delay. The defence argued that the State had defied an order from the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court on April 6, 2023.