Crime
South Africa’s Vice President Fined For Not Declaring Diamond Gift From Alleged Fraudster
The fine was recommended by Parliament’s Joint Ethics Committee, which found Mashatile in violation of the country’s asset declaration rules.
South Africa Vice President Paul Mashatile has been fined R10,000 by the country’s parliament.
He was fined for failing to declare a diamond gift received from businessman, Louis Liebenberg.
Liebenberg is currently on trial for alleged fraud involving a diamond investment scheme.
The fine was recommended by Parliament’s Joint Ethics Committee, which found Mashatile in violation of the country’s asset declaration rules.
The matter was brought to the committee’s attention by Democratic Alliance (DA) chief whip George Michalakis, who raised concerns after reviewing Mashatile’s asset declarations in March.
In a statement on Thursday, the DA welcomed the committee’s decision and called for a broader investigation into Mashatile’s relationship with Liebenberg.
“There are also questions around the legality of this diamond, its nature, source, and certification,” the party said, adding that both the Vice President and the Department of Justice must provide clarity.
The party also demanded an explanation regarding a reported visit by Liebenberg to Mashatile’s residence in November 2023.
Meanwhile, the Vice President is also under scrutiny over the declaration of two properties valued at R63 million. He has denied ownership, saying the properties belong to his son-in-law.
“People must read. There’s nothing in Parliament that says I own a house. I said I live there. That house is owned by my son-in-law,” Mashatile said in response to questions about the properties. “There is no government money in those houses. So what are you looking for?”
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