South Africa’s Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa resigned on Wednesday, hours after appearing in court over bribery allegations.
In a statement, the Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture said Kodwa has informed President Cyril Ramaphosa of his decision to step down with immediate effect.
“Mr Kodwa has informed the President that he will resign as Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture and member of cabinet after being formally charged,” the ministry said.
Kodwa was formally charged with taking bribes when he appeared in a Johannesburg court on Wednesday alongside co-accused Jehan Mackay.
He is accused of taking R1.6 million (about US$85,000) in bribes in connection with contracts handed by the city of Johannesburg to upgrade and maintain the metro’s software systems.
His lawyer says the minister denies the charges.
JN/APA