A report that made tempers flare on Wednesday was that on the investigation by the FirstRand Group of banks, of which Maharaj was a director.

Requested by Maharaj himself, the probe looked at corruption allegations connected with tenders awarded during Maharaj's tenure as transport minister; at questions raised about money paid to his wife; and about a trip he and his family took to Orlando, Florida.

Its report was never made public, but Maharaj resigned, believing his position had been made untenable.

On Wednesday the clear suggestion by Marumo Moerane SC, Ngcuka's counsel, that he had the FirstRand report in his possession angered Maharaj, who said he had an agreement with the bank that it was not to be made public.

"Advocate (Rudolph) Maastenbroek (of the Scorpions) requested a copy from FirstRand. I told them to give it under subpoena only. Otherwise the Scorpions will use and abuse it."

Maharaj said Maastenbroek had given assurances when he asked for the report.

Moerane: Did the report raise the question of whether you were a fit and proper person to remain on the board?

Maharaj: No.

Moerane: Are you sure? Why did the report then go to the Financial Services Board?

Maharaj: Because FirstRand is a banking group.

Moerane: Did you read the final report?

Maharaj: Yes.

Moerane: And there was no issue in it about you being a fit and proper person?

Maharaj: No.

Moerane: Would you like us to produce it?

With acknowledgement to The Star.