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ActionSA will formally request the Public Protector to investigate the questionable circumstances surrounding the diamond gift from Louis Liebenberg, a fraud-accused diamond smuggler, to Deputy President Paul Mashatile, regarding any potential breaches of ethical standards or violations of the Executive Members' Ethics Act. 

Liebenberg, who faces over 40 charges of theft, fraud, money laundering, and racketeering, and is known for illicitly trading in political favours, suspiciously gifted the Deputy President a large diamond, supposedly intended for his wife or partner.

Alarmingly, this “gift” raises serious concerns when viewed in the context of allegations surrounding the Deputy President’s unexplained lavish lifestyle, claims that he too engages heavily in trading favours, and Liebenberg’s reputation for “gifting” extravagant items to high-ranking politicians and government officials as a means to buy influence.

ActionSA contends that serious questions arise about the Deputy President’s relationship with fraud- and theft-accused Louis Liebenberg, who also has a questionable association with the corrupt MK owner, Jacob Zuma.

Frankly, these connections suggest the possibility of a deeper and more sinister relationship involving the Deputy President, warranting a thorough and transparent investigation to ensure accountability.

Concerningly, aspects of Liebenberg's case mirror a troubling pattern involving other high-ranking politicians and connected individuals, such as Zizi Kodwa, the President and his predecessor, where cases are undermined or entirely botched by the NPA due to entirely avoidable prosecutorial errors, questionable conduct, and baffling decisions to decline prosecutions.

ActionSA is committed to ensuring that political leaders serving in the highest offices of the land are above reproach and will tirelessly fight to entrench accountability and safeguard South Africa from the destructive corruption that continues to cripple our great country. 

Issued by ActionSA Parliamentary Leader Athol Trollip