Brown Mogotsi retracts CIA claims against King Misuzulu and Mkhwanazi
In a dramatic turn during a parliamentary hearing, North West businessman Brown Mogotsi formally withdrew his sensational claims that King Misuzulu ka Zwelithini and Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi were acting as CIA agents. The retraction came after Mogotsi admitted he had no evidence to substantiate the allegations, leaving many observers reflecting on how unverified claims can ripple across politics and public perception.
A formal apology in Parliament
Mogotsi appeared before Parliament’s ad hoc committee probing corruption, state capture, and political interference in the criminal justice system. Under questioning by ANC MP Khusela Sangoni, he acknowledged the lack of proof and issued a direct apology to both men.
“Because there’s no statement, I hereby withdraw,” Mogotsi said. “I hereby apologise for casting aspersions on Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi and King Misuzulu the Majesty.”
The businessman had initially claimed the two men were recruited by the United States’ CIA, citing King Misuzulu’s time living in the U.S. and Mkhwanazi’s previous remarks about being “trained by the Americans.” He further alleged Mkhwanazi had used the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT) to intimidate and harass members of AmaZulu Prince Simakade’s royal household.
Unverified sources and shifting accounts
Mogotsi consistently admitted that his information came from an undisclosed source, and that the source provided no supporting evidence. He also recounted a trip to Kenya to meet someone who reportedly confirmed similar suspicions, though details about who funded the trip and who accompanied him remained inconsistent.
During questioning by EFF leader Julius Malema, Mogotsi’s account of expenses and companions changed multiple times. He initially claimed to have paid himself, then said colleagues contributed, and finally stated an anonymous person covered the ticket, citing safety concerns. The committee has since requested proof of payment and identification of those involved.
Linking allegations to broader international concerns
Mogotsi attempted to contextualise his claims within broader geopolitical issues, citing South Africa’s dealings with Israel at the International Criminal Court and disputes over coal contracts at the Richards Bay terminal. However, he admitted he could not confirm any official investigation against Mkhwanazi regarding these matters.
Public reaction and political fallout
Social media responses have ranged from incredulity to concern about how easily unverified allegations can gain traction. Observers note that Mogotsi’s retraction may temper immediate political fallout, but it also highlights the potential for misinformation to shape narratives, especially when involving high-profile figures like King Misuzulu and Mkhwanazi.
While the committee continues to examine the claims, Mogotsi’s apology serves as a reminder of the importance of evidence before making public accusations, particularly when they touch on matters of national security, royalty, and law enforcement.
Source: IOL
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