'This is not a confession': Malusi Gigaba on voluntarily stepping aside from ANC duties
File picture: Themba Hadebe/Associated Press. Former Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba: Step-Aside Decision Upholds ANC Integrity, Not an Admission of Wrongdoing
Image: File picture: Themba Hadebe/Associated Press.
African National Congress (ANC) senior leader Dr Malusi Gigaba has made it clear that his decision to step aside from ANC duties does “not” amount to an admission of wrongdoing.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the former Finance Minister emphasised that stepping aside is a voluntary and procedural measure designed to uphold the ANC’s integrity - not a confession of guilt.
Gigaba faces corruption charges relating to allegations that he accepted undisclosed cash payments from members of the Gupta family, which the State claims were corrupt.
On Tuesday, he appeared before the Palm Ridge Specialised Commercial Crime Court in Johannesburg alongside five other Transnet executives who face the exact charges.
Despite the serious nature of the allegations, Gigaba voluntarily stepped aside from his ANC responsibilities.
He explained that his move was in strict compliance with the ANC Constitution and aligned with resolutions from the party’s 55th National Conference on organisational renewal.
“The step-aside principle exists to protect the organisation’s integrity, uphold public trust, and ensure that members facing legal processes do not place the movement in disrepute,” he said.
He highlighted his absolute commitment to the ANC’s values and processes.
“I remain unwavering in my commitment to uphold the rules, values, and regulatory framework that govern our movement. This organisation deserves nothing less than absolute fidelity to its principles.”
Gigaba and his legal team have been emphatic that stepping aside is not a disciplinary sanction nor does it imply any guilt.
Attorney Ian Levitt, representing Gigaba, noted that the step aside is a constitutional principle requiring members facing legal uncertainty to remove themselves from party roles temporarily, but it does not constitute an admission of wrongdoing.
“Dr Gigaba maintains his innocence and will respond to all allegations in the courts, where evidence will be tested,” said Levitt.
“Until then, no speculative commentary is productive. This is a procedural measure designed to preserve the ANC’s integrity and allow due legal process to unfold.”
Gigaba also addressed the political context, rejecting claims that the step-aside decision was politically motivated.
He explained that it was a careful, consultative decision made with complete transparency with ANC leadership to ensure that unresolved legal matters would not hinder the party’s renewal agenda.
He added that the step-aside affects only ANC party roles and does not impact his parliamentary status, which is governed by separate protocols.
On the specific charges stemming from allegations of corruption and irregularities at Transnet, as outlined in the summons served on him, Gigaba’s legal team has yet to receive the full case docket or disclosure documents.
Until then, they say they cannot comment on the substance of the allegations.
Gigaba’s next court appearance is scheduled for January 30, 2026, when the state is expected to disclose the indictment.
thabo.makwakwa@inl.co.za
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