Tears in the Dock:Former Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula's Emotional Court Appearance

ANC veteran leader Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula

Former National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula's composure crumbled in the Pretoria High Court as she faced 12 charges of corruption and one charge of money laundering. The allegations stem from her time as Defense Minister, where she reportedly received kickbacks from a lucrative defense contract.

As the court proceedings began, Mapisa-Nqakula's emotions got the better of her. Her mouth trembled, and she broke down in tears, momentarily leaving the accused box to wipe away her tears.

The court heard that Mapisa-Nqakula allegedly asked for R300,000 in cash from defense industry businesswoman Nombasa Ntsondwa-Ndhlovu, sole director of Umkhombe Marine. The company had been awarded a R104 million contract by the SA National Defence Force.

Mapisa-Nqakula's lawyer, advocate Graham Kerr-Phillips, requested a postponement to review the 26-file docket provided by the state. He also plans to subpoena bank statements and make representations to the National Director of Public Prosecutions.

The case has sparked intense interest, with many watching to see how it unfolds. The postponement to November 21 will give Mapisa-Nqakula's legal team time to prepare their defense.

As the court drama unfolds, one thing is certain – Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula's reputation hangs precariously in the balance. Will she clear her name, or will the allegations prove too great to overcome? Only time will tell.