A public inquiry opened on Monday in South Africa following reports of corruption and misuse of state funds during the tenure of former President Jacob Zuma.
The commission hearing the issue is to look into reports of “state capture” by a wealthy business family to control government businesses.
Former President Zuma is accused of granting the Guptas, the wealthy business family, influence over government appointments, contracts and state-owned businesses.
Former Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan had said that nearly $7bn of public funds were looted through corrupt practices.
Both Mr Zuma and the Guptas have denied any wrongdoing.
The commission of inquiry is tasked to collate evidence during the hearing over the next two years. Those details could be used for any future prosecution.
South Africa’s deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo is heading this public inquiry sitting which opened in Johannesburg.
Zondo said at the start of hearings that members of the public must come forward with evidence on the matter.
“The response has been quite disappointing. I would like to take this opportunity once again to ask the public to come forward with any information. If this commission is to do its job properly we need evidence,” he said.
The where about of the Guptas is unknown but there has been a crackdown on them for sometime now.
President Cyril Ramaphosa, who succeeded Jacob Zuma has promised to deal with corruption.
Jacob Zuma himself is facing other corruption charges in separate court actions by the state.
Source: Africafeeds.com
