Photo: GCIS
Photo: GCIS
Another compelling day at the State Capture Inquiry has proved to be particularly damaging for the former minister Nomvula Mokonyane. Her PA, Sandy Thomas, has revealed that Gavin Watson – the former CEO of Bosasa – regularly arranged to send birthday gifts to the ANC stalwart while she occupied public office.
The act itself may not seem so sinister at first, but Mokonyane is also accused of being kept on a ‘bribery retainer’ by the company to lobby for their interests in Parliament. As revealed by witnesses past and present, Bosasa orchestrated a complex system of backhanders and sweeteners between themselves and the politically connected.
Thomas, who finally managed to appear at the State Capture Inquiry after some confusion last week, wasn’t shy when it came to listing the details of Watson’s gifts. The witness told the panel just how lavish these presents were.
Thomas stated that Gavin Watson made a habit of buying gifts for Mokonyane, always remembering her birthday. The relationship between this kingpin of corruption and a senior government representative was perhaps too close for comfort:
“I think through their discussions he discovered myself and the minister share a birthday in the same week, he would then also surprise me or call me. Gavin Watson would call either on my birthday or the day after my birthday. He would ask for my opinion on what to buy for Nomvula, and ask me for recommendations.”
Sandy Thomas
Former Minister Nomvula Mokonyane’s personal assistant Sandy Thomas has told the #StateCaptureInquiry in Johannesburg that former BOSASA CEO Gavin Watson consulted her on the type of flowers and gifts to buy for her boss.https://t.co/dvzyY2zN2G
— SABC News (@SABCNews) August 31, 2020