South Africa’s Sports Minister Zizi Kodwa appeared before a court on corruption charges [File: Wikus De Wet/AFP]
By Dickson Bandera
At a time when the South African senior men’s team, Bafana Bafana is preparing for the crucial World Cup qualifiers, Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Mr Zizi Kodwa has unexpectedly announced his immediate resignation.
This announcement comes just days before South Africa’s national football team is set to face Nigeria away, followed by a high-stakes match against their bitter rivals, Zimbabwe, on home turf.
The resignation, officially communicated on June 5, 2024, follows formal charges against Mr. Kodwa, charges which he vehemently denies.
Kodwa was earlier arrested and appeared before the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court on charges of corruption. He was given R30 000 bail .
His arrest emanated from his relationship with former EOH Executive Jehan Mackay, who is alleged to have channelled payments of over R1.6 million to him.
In his resignation statement, Kodwa expressed his gratitude to the President and the governing party for the opportunity to serve the nation. He assured the President of his immediate step down from his ministerial role and as a member of the Cabinet.
“I have informed the President that I will resign as Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture and Member of Cabinet, after being formally charged,” Mr. Kodwa stated.
He added his heartfelt thanks to the staff of the Ministry and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture for their support during his tenure.
“I take this opportunity to express thanks to all the staff at the Ministry and Department of Sport, Arts and Culture for the opportunity to serve with them, and to all stakeholders in Sport, Arts and Culture, with whom I have worked so well as Minister.”
Mr. Kodwa’s departure injects a note of uncertainty into the atmosphere as South Africa prepares for two crucial World Cup qualifying matches.
Bafana Bafana is scheduled to play Nigeria in an away game before hosting Zimbabwe in what promises to be a fiercely contested match on June 11.
