Lungani Zungu & Kabelo Tlhabanelo
Ace Magashule’s backers appear to have dumped him when he needs them the most as he fights to evade prison, with less than one hundred of them turning up to support him at court.
The suspended ANC secretary-general appeared at the Bloemfontein High Court on Tuesday over the R255 million Free State asbestos tender issued during his time as premier.
Unlike before, Magashule was greeted by only a few supporters, signalling his loss of support even in his home province which he led as premier for ten years.
Scrolla.Africa previously reported that funders had ditched Magashule as well, and this was evident outside court as there was no stage or sound equipment.
When he first appeared in court last November, a giant stage decorated with Magashule’s image was erected for him to address his many supporters.
While his support has evidently vanished, his few die-hard backers were in court. Among them were Carl Nieuhas and former North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo.
Magashule’s case was postponed to 3 November, which falls on his birthday – and just two days after the local government elections set for 1 November.
Magashule briefly addressed his few supporters, urging them to vote for the ANC in the upcoming elections.
He tore into the state, saying it was politically motivated.
“They’re just wasting our time because it is clear that there is no case here and this thing is political,” said Magashule.
His supporter Maipato Meya told Scrolla.Africa she would sing for Magashule on 3 November.
“I will be singing ‘happy court-day to you, happy court-day to you’,” said Meya.
“I think many will wish him well on his special day.”
Thabiso Lerumo said Magashule deserved to spend his birthday at home with his family.
