Naledi Pandor challenges Julius Malema to substantiate claims involving her family in the VBS Mutual Bank scandal
Naledi Pandor, South Africa’s former Minister of International Relations, has called on EFF leader Julius Malema to provide evidence supporting his allegations that her family secured a loan from the now-defunct VBS Mutual Bank. Malema made these claims during a public rally, but Pandor has strongly refuted them, demanding that he either present proof or issue a public apology. The allegations stem from Malema’s accusations about the misuse of funds linked to the VBS scandal, where several political figures were implicated.
Pandor Denies Malema’s Claims as Baseless
Pandor maintains that neither she nor her family has had any dealings with the bank, labelling Malema’s claims as baseless and defamatory. She has given him the ultimatum to back up his allegations with evidence or retract them with an apology, insisting on the importance of accountability in South Africa’s political arena.
The VBS Scandal: A Wider Context
The dispute draws attention to the broader scandal surrounding VBS Mutual Bank, a bank that collapsed due to corruption, where millions of rand were siphoned off, impacting municipalities, individuals, and investors. The involvement of high-profile figures like Malema and his political party in the controversy has kept it in the public eye. Pandor’s demand for accountability from Malema highlights the need for transparency and truth in such serious accusations.
Awaiting Malema’s Response: Proof or Apology
Malema has yet to formally respond to Pandor’s demand, and it remains to be seen whether he will provide proof of the alleged loan or offer a public apology for his claims.
