In a dramatic turn of political affairs, Dr. Naledi Pandor, the former Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, has firmly rebuked Julius Malema’s recent allegations. Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has accused Pandor of benefiting from a bond from the now-defunct VBS Mutual Bank—claims Pandor vehemently denies.
Pandor, who returned from an overseas trip, expressed her outrage at Malema’s accusations. “I was dismayed to hear Mr. Julius Malema’s baseless claim on SABC last night that I received a bond for my house from VBS,” Pandor stated. “I unequivocally deny ever receiving such a bond. I challenge Mr. Malema to publicly present the evidence backing this falsehood. Should he fail to do so, I demand a public apology for not only lying about me but also tarnishing my reputation.”
Pandor’s response underscores her frustration with what she describes as a deliberate attempt to undermine her credibility. “As a leader of a political party represented in Parliament, I am deeply disappointed by Mr. Malema’s dishonesty,” she added. “It is appalling that he would resort to such low tactics in an attempt to damage my good name.”
During his interview with SABC, Malema implicated several ANC leaders, including Pandor, in a broader narrative of corruption linked to VBS Mutual Bank. “You are right, you are saying people are being held accountable,” Malema said. “When I heard that Brian Shivambu is paying back the money, that is part of being held accountable. Zuma paid back the money, he also paid the VBS, if he did, the bond which he got.”
Malema continued, “Naledi Pandor was also in the VBS bond or something … yes, she was there, they are your darlings, you’ll never know their names. You know the names of those you don’t like. To demonstrate there is no principle, many names, a lot of names are there. This is just used to blackmail people.”
The allegations have ignited a firestorm of controversy and debate. Pandor’s call for evidence and a public apology has set the stage for a potential clash between the former minister and the EFF leader. As the political fallout unfolds, both Pandor’s supporters and critics are closely watching how this high-profile dispute will impact their respective reputations and careers.
