IN PICS | Scores of supporters show up for Ace Magashule’s asbestos case

On Friday the 11 accused and five companies implicated in the asbestos fraud and corruption case made a brief appearance in the Bloemfontein magistrate’s court before their case was postponed to August 11 for pre-trial proceedings.

People sang and danced outside the Bloemfontein magistrate's court on Friday to show their support for Ace Magashule. (Thapelo Morebudi/The Sunday Times)

Ekurhuleni executive mayor Mzwandile Masina and Bathabile Dlamini, leader of the ANC Women's League, outside the court in Bloemfontein on Friday. (Thapelo Morebudi/Sunday Times)

LISTEN | 'I have done nothing wrong': Ace Magashule after corruption trial appearance

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ANC secretary-general and former Free State premier Ace Magashule was arrested, charged and granted bail in November last year for his alleged involvement in the R255m Free State asbestos roofing scandal.

Seven co-accused were arrested a month earlier and all were released on hefty bail amounts ranging from R50,000 to R500,000.

Droves of supporters and top ANC officials who maintain Magashule’s innocence over the corruption charges were seen outside the court while a heavy police presence controlled the growing crowd.

Supporters held posters calling for 'hands off' ANC secretary-general Ace Magashule on Friday. (Thapelo Morebudi/The Sunday Times.)

The ANC had called for supporters of the accused to adhere to Covid-19 regulations which prohibit political gatherings under this level of lockdown, but some within the ANC’s ranks have been rallying crowds in support of Magashule.