By Hassan Isilow
JOHANNESBURG (AA) – A major commission of inquiry probing former President Jacob Zuma and an Indian family on corruption charges started Monday in Johannesburg.
The commission, established in March, is investigating allegations the Indian Gupta family influenced Zuma to give them government contracts.
It is also alleged that the Guptas influenced Zuma to appoint or fire ministers, if they did not advance their business interests.
Former Deputy Finance Minister Mcebisi Jonas had accused the family of attempting to bribe him with 600 million Rand ($41M) in 2015, which he declined.
Jonas said he had been promised the money so he could become the finance minister and advance the families business interests. Other former officials made similar allegations; he will testify on Tuesday together with other witnesses.
Commission chairperson, Deputy Justice Ray Zondo, said government departments did not cooperate during their investigations. He said he had written to President Cyril Ramaphosa over the issue.
Zondo urged South Africans with information to come forward and help the commission.
Zuma resigned earlier this year after succumbing to pressure from his own ruling African National Congress (ANC). Both Zuma and Guptas have denied any involvement in corruption.
The Gupta Family consists of three brothers who came to South Africa two decades ago; their businesses are now said to be worth billions. Their interests include mining, media and computer sales among others. The brothers left South Africa in April and have not returned.
