Johannesburg – Former National Treasury director-general Dondo Mogajane – accused of taking a one million rand bribe to stall the investigation into VBS shenanigans – has immediately stepped down from all his professional roles and boards.
Convicted fraudster and former VBS chair Tshifhiwa Matodzi claimed in an affidavit that he paid Mogajane R1m via a non-profit company to stall an investigation into the bank’s affairs initiated by Treasury.
Named as the kingpin behind the VBS theft, Matodzi told authorities in a plea deal that in August 2017 Mogajane attended a meeting at a cigar bar in Fourways, Gauteng, where he agreed to receive R1 million to stall the probe into the operations of the now defunct mutual bank.
Matodzi was sentenced to 15 years in prison in July this year.
RELATED: Former VBS Board Chairperson Tshifiwa Matodzi Sentenced To 15 Years In Prison – The Bulrushes
Mogajane, who denies the allegations, on Monday, (4 November 2024), wrote an open letter issued to The Bulrushes on his behalf by Shannon Henning of PR Worx saying: “Recently, I have been confronted with unfounded and malicious allegations made by a convicted criminal with questionable motives. These are baseless accusations”.
The letter added: “However, I acknowledge the gravity of such claims. It is with a deep sense of responsibility that I have made the decision to step down from all my professional roles and the boards that I have served, effective immediately”.
Media reports said more evidence had surfaced that appeared to corroborate Matodzi’s bribery accusations against Mogajane.
Celebrated for his leadership skills and financial acumen, Mogajane worked in public service for over 23 years.
Within the National Treasury, he worked his way through the ranks to Director-General, serving for five years before joining as CEO of the Moti Group of Companies in 2022.
Stung by the allegations, Mogajane said he believes in the importance of due process and remains confident that, “in time, the truth will prevail, and my reputation will be fully restored”.
In his open letter Mogajane added: “I will be taking an extended sabbatical to focus on my personal well-being, spend time with my family and, particularly, my grandson, and reflect on my professional journey.
“This time will also allow me to explore personal interests I have long deferred.
“More importantly, I plan to write a book about my experiences in public service, recounting the challenges, triumphs, and remarkable individuals I have encountered along the way.
“While this chapter of my career has drawn to a close, it is not the conclusion of my story.
“This period marks a pause, not an endpoint.
“At a later stage, I may decide to possibly re-enter the private sector and, maybe, even politics.”
Full interview statement: https://we.tl/t-tiOVg5EXHk
