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Government welcomes the Johannesburg High Court’s sentencing of former Member of Parliament Vincent Smith to seven years’ imprisonment on charges that include fraud and corruption linked to receiving kickbacks from facilities management company Bosasa. Smith pleaded guilty to charges including contravention of the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act 12 of 2004 and the Income Tax Act.

This sentencing follows recommendations of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, led by Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, which investigated widespread corruption and fraud. The Commission played a critical role in uncovering wrongdoing and recommending institutional reforms to strengthen accountability and rebuild public trust.

Smith’s sentencing also reflects government’s commitment, as articulated by President Cyril Ramaphosa in the 2026 State of the Nation Address, to intensify the fight against corruption and ensure that those who abuse public resources are held accountable.

Implementing the recommendations of the Zondo Commission, and other commissions of inquiry, is a key part of strengthening democratic institutions and restoring integrity in government. Government places ethical governance and the rule of law at the centre of building a capable and developmental state. Commissions of inquiry are therefore vital instruments to enable government to expose wrongdoing, recommend reforms and ensure that justice is ultimately served.

Government reiterates that no one is above the law and that the country’s democratic institutions remain resolute in the fight against corruption. The implementation of the recommendations of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, together with the commitments outlined in the 2026 State of the Nation Address demonstrates government’s determination to strengthen accountability, rebuild public trust and ensure that public resources are used to advance the development and well-being of all South Africans.

Issued by Government Communication and Information System