Detailed allegations of corruption in the Mpumalanga Economic Empowerment Corporation are likely to emerge today when the corruption trial of former Scorpions deputy director Cornwell Tshavhungwa begins.

According to the charge sheet, Tshavhungwa is alleged to have received R1,2m for stifling an investigation *1 into the corporation’s activities.

It is also claimed that he secured jobs for his wife and brother *1 at the institution.

The Scorpions are now reviewing all the cases on which Tshavhungwa worked, including those involving former Limpopo premier Ngoako Ramatlhodi and Mpumalanga businesswoman Nora Fakude-Nkuna.

There are further implications for Fakude-Nkuna, a confidante and benefactor of former deputy president Jacob Zuma. She was a member of the corporation’s board who quit in January amid allegations of corruption.

The corporation’s former CEO, Ernest Khoza, is believed to have turned state witness.

The charge sheet alleges Tshavhungwa “pretended (that he was) investigating irregularities pertaining to the granting of loans” by the corporation.

In truth, the state claims, Tshavhungwa “was only concerned with procuring the awarding of the risk-management contract to Ramcorp ­ in which he had shares ­ in exchange for diverting such investigations”.

Ramcorp landed a lucrative contract with the corporation.

With acknowledgement to Rob Rose and Business Day.

*1 Sound familiar?