The resignation of Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, a prominent figure as the speaker of the National Assembly of South Africa, has sent shockwaves through the political landscape. This significant event occurred on Wednesday amidst an ongoing inquiry into allegations of corruption during her tenure as the defense minister.
Investigators shrouded in secrecy raided Mapisa-Nqakula's home last month as part of the corruption investigation. The details of the investigation and the charges remain undisclosed, adding to the intrigue surrounding the case.
"My resignation is in no way an indication or admission of guilt regarding the allegations being levelled against me," she said in a statement.
Her resignation took effect immediately, and she also gave up her seat in parliament.
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From 2012 until 2021, Mapisa-Nqakula served as minister of defense. According to a report by South Africa's state-run broadcaster SABC, she is allegedly suspected of accepting millions of rand in cash bribes from a former military contractor.
After the raid, Mapisa-Nqakula requested a special leave of absence. On Tuesday, she lost her legal attempt to prevent the individual's arrest.
She has not yet been accused of any crimes, and the police have not formally announced that she may be taken into custody.
