“We also all know that he amassed more than R10 million from the Guptas and various sources. The money was meant for MK ex-combatants, but a large portion of those monies ended in his personal pockets,” Mentor claimed on her Facebook page.
She was responding to the Umkhonto weSizwe Military Veterans Association head’s claim on Wednesday that she and others who had criticised the Guptas were supporting white-owned monopoly capitalism.
Maphatsoe said Mentor was “not normal”.
“She should report me to ANC that I received R10 million, or open a case against me. I really don’t take her seriously.”
He said she was merely following Deputy Finance Minister Mcebisi Jonas’ example. Jonas revealed earlier this month that the Guptas had offered him the job of finance minister, shortly before President Jacob Zuma removed Nhlanhla Nene from the post in December last year.
Mentor subsequently said the Guptas had offered her the job of public enterprises minister in 2010, to replace Barbara Hogan, if she gave the family South African Airways’ route to India.
The Guptas have denied the allegations.
Maphatsoe denied having any personal business dealings with the Gupta family, but said he appreciated the family’s supporting the MKMVA.
“They offered us a stake in one of their projects and we really appreciated that. It’s not a hidden thing. They are friends of MKMVA,” he said.
He further rejected her claim that he was a double agent and had to escape from an MK camp when his cover was blown.
“This thing is not new. She is not a member of Umkhonto weSizwe. She can’t substantiate her claims,” he said.
Source: News 24
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