By Staff Reporter
EMALAHLENI-The Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Technical Services, Busi Hlumbane, and the MMC for Development and Planning, Jerry Djiana, will remain behind bars over the Easter weekend following the postponement of their corruption case to 22 April 2025 by the eMalahleni Magistrate’s Court.
The pair were arrested by the Hawks on Wednesday, 16 April, at Witbank Dam after allegedly receiving a R20,000 gratification, believed to be part of a larger R500,000 bribe solicited from a businessman in exchange for the extension of a lease agreement.
Two luxury vehicles allegedly used during the commission of the crime were seized during the arrest.
Hlumbane and Djiana appeared in court on Thursday, 17 April, facing three counts of extortion, three counts of corruption, and one count of defeating the ends of justice. Their attorney informed the court that they intend to plead not guilty to all charges.
In response to the arrests, the ANC in Mpumalanga released a statement expressing shock and disappointment, confirming that both councillors will step aside from their roles in accordance with the party’s constitution.
The ANC also urged its members to respect the judicial process and not to mobilize support for individuals accused of misconduct.
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