ANC
Former minister Dr. Malusi Gigaba has voluntarily stepped aside from his ANC responsibilities after being formally charged in the Transnet locomotives corruption case. His decision follows the party’s step-aside policy, which requires members facing criminal charges to temporarily leave office while legal proceedings continue.
Former Public Enterprises and Home Affairs minister Dr. Malusi Gigaba has voluntarily stepped aside from his responsibilities within the African National Congress (ANC) following his recent court appearance. The step-aside decision on Wednesday, comes after Gigaba was formally charged on Tuesday in connection with alleged corruption in the Transnet locomotives deal.
The ANC on Wednesday said in a statement that Gigaba’s decision reflects discipline, maturity, and respect for organisational processes. Acting National Spokesperson Nonceba Mhlauli said the party welcomed the decision, describing it as a demonstration of accountability and commitment to the integrity of the movement.
“The ANC recognises cde Gigaba’s decision as a clear affirmation of our renewal agenda and a demonstration that leaders remain bound by the solemn oath of membership,” Mhlauli said.
The step-aside policy was reaffirmed at the ANC’s 55th National Conference. It requires members who are formally charged with criminal offenses to voluntarily step aside from their positions, ensuring that leadership remains beyond reproach while legal proceedings are ongoing. The policy is not a presumption of guilt, but a measure aimed at safeguarding public confidence and maintaining organisational integrity.
Gigaba appeared in the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, alongside former Eskom CEO Matshela Molefe and other co-accused. The Independent Directorate of Anti-Corruption (IDAC) confirmed that Gigaba has been formally charged.
Other people on step aside include former Secretary-General Ace Magashule, who stepped aside following corruption charges linked to the Free State asbestos project. Other prominent ANC members have similarly stepped aside under the policy, reflecting the party’s commitment to accountability.
Outside the political context, Gigaba has previously been subject to public attention for a personal video that circulated online. The video once trended on social media, with some users on platform X joking about the content. The party statement emphasised that the step-aside decision is unrelated to these incidents and focused solely on legal accountability.
Mhlauli reiterated that the step-aside measure is a responsible organisational approach. “It is guided not by compulsion but by an unwavering commitment to accountability, revolutionary morality, and the principle that leadership must be beyond reproach,” she said.
The ANC’s statement highlighted that Gigaba’s voluntary decision strengthens efforts to rebuild trust in the party and reinforce its commitment to ethical leadership. The party said that stepping aside allows legal matters to proceed without distraction and protects the reputation of the movement while maintaining unity.
Gigaba’s case is one of several high-profile matters involving former and current ANC leaders. The party said the step-aside rule applies uniformly, ensuring that all members charged with criminal offences respect the process while continuing to uphold the organisation’s values.
The step-aside decision by Gigaba marks the latest development in ongoing efforts by the ANC to demonstrate accountability and transparency, particularly in cases involving allegations of corruption at state-owned enterprises and in government.
