Minister Fears for Safety After Theft Allegations
Threats and Accusations Mount
South African Minister of Minerals and Petroleum Resources, Gwede Mantashe, is concerned for his and his family’s security. This follows threats he received after allegations made by self-proclaimed mining rights activist, Zakhele Zuma. Zuma accused Mantashe of stealing R40 million from mineworkers.
Mantashe, who also chairs the ANC, disclosed this in a Johannesburg High Court application. He seeks an injunction to prevent Zuma from repeating these accusations. Mantashe feels menaced by individuals who believe the claims made by Zuma, fearing they perceive him as a thief.
“I feel threatened by the people who believe the lies that Mr Zuma is propagating, as they will believe that I took their money.
—Gwede Mantashe
Mantashe argues that these statements are defamatory and endanger him and his family, as they reside near mining communities. He interacts with them regularly. The minister is also experiencing abuse and hateful remarks, with his family viewed as beneficiaries of stolen funds. The minister reported he is suffering daily abuse because of the perception that he stole from the miners.
Spreading the Allegations
The allegations are causing severe harm to the reputations of Mantashe and his family. He has faced online harassment and threats from the public. Mantashe believes that the allegations have created unwarranted panic among investors and stakeholders. The minister stated that he has been subjected to abuse from users on X, who believe the accusations made by Zuma.
Mantashe stated that the allegations created unnecessary panic. These allegations have a negative effect on the ability of both the ANC and the government to manage their affairs. According to the Minerals Council South Africa, the mining industry contributes significantly to the country’s GDP (Minerals Council South Africa).
Legal Action and Continued Claims
Mantashe filed a criminal charge of crimen injuria against Zuma at Brooklyn police station. Yet, Zuma continues to disseminate the allegations. He published a video on June 10, 2010, reiterating the same claims. In the video, Zuma is seen in Mantashe‘s ANC office, allegedly inciting people.
Mantashe said Zuma hopes to undermine his position. The minister attempted to resolve the issue through his lawyers, but Zuma failed to retract his “spurious and defamatory” allegations. Mantashe asserts that Zuma has refused to comply with the demand for retraction, proceeding to publish false and defamatory statements against him.