Deputy President Paul Mashatile has defended his long-standing relationships with wealthy business associates, insisting he will not distance himself from friends simply because they have benefited from commercial success.
Speaking in the National Assembly on Thursday, Mashatile rejected criticism over his links to individuals reportedly connected to the newly awarded National Lottery contract. He maintained that none of his associates had been implicated in illegal conduct and said their success should not automatically be viewed with suspicion.
The remarks follow recent reports linking some of Mashatile’s associates and a relative by marriage to Sizekhaya Holdings, the company set to assume control of the National Lottery next month. Mashatile stressed that he had no involvement in the awarding of the tender and denied any wrongdoing.
Paul Mashatile Rejects Claims Over Lotto Tender Connections
Addressing MPs, Mashatile dismissed suggestions that his friendships with business figures connected to the lottery deal were improper.
“News24 did not once say they are doing irregular business…anything illegal. They are just, oh no, they are friends of the Deputy President, and so what?”
Mashatile told Parliament that he would never use his political position to unlawfully advance the business interests of friends or family members.
According to The Times Post, the Deputy President maintained that being associated with successful entrepreneurs does not amount to evidence of corruption or misconduct.
Mashatile Accuses Critics Of Questioning Black Wealth
Mashatile also criticised DA MP Baxolile Nodada after questions were raised about businesspeople linked to the Lotto tender being invited guests at this year’s State of the Nation Address.
Nodada reportedly described the situation as “fishy”, prompting a sharp response from Mashatile during the parliamentary session.
“When black people become wealthy, then oh, they must have stolen somewhere. They must have gotten a tender somewhere irregularly. It’s even shameful when it’s said by a black man like yourself.”
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The Deputy President said critics should approach law enforcement authorities if they believe his associates or family members are involved in unlawful activities.
“Anybody who believes my children or my friends are involved in crooked dealings should report it to the police.”
Mashatile remained firm that he would not apologise for maintaining friendships with successful businesspeople, arguing that wealth alone should not be treated as evidence of corruption.
