In a controversial move that’s sparked both legal debate and public outcry, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has officially withdrawn fraud charges against Moroadi Cholota, the former personal assistant to ex-Free State Premier and former ANC secretary-general Ace Magashule.
Cholota was considered a central figure in the R255 million asbestos scandal, a high-profile corruption case linked to a 2014 contract awarded during Magashule’s term as premier. The charges against her were dropped due to ongoing challenges with her extradition from the United States, where she is currently residing.
According to the NPA, the decision is “strategic”—aimed at avoiding further delays in the main trial. Legal analysts suggest this may allow prosecutors to proceed against the remaining accused, including Magashule and businessman Edwin Sodi, without procedural setbacks. However, critics argue it raises concerns about consistency and accountability, especially when high-stakes corruption cases are involved.
Despite this turn, Magashule still faces 21 charges related to fraud, corruption, and money laundering. The case remains active, with a pre-trial conference set to take place at the Bloemfontein High Court, as public interest in the trial grows and pressure mounts on the justice system to deliver results.
