Just shortly after his appearance in the Palm Ridge Specialised Commercial Crime Court was concluded earlier today, it was announced that Zizi Kodwa had tendered his resignation as minister of sport, arts and culture.

His resignation was confirmed by departmental media liaison officer Litha Mpondwana, who added that Kodwa ‘strongly denies’ the allegations against him.

“Kodwa expresses his sincere appreciation to the president and the governing party for the opportunity to serve the nation. He also takes the opportunity to express thanks to all the staff at the ministry and Department of Sport, Arts and Culture for the opportunity to serve with them, and to all stakeholders in sport, arts and culture, with who he has worked so well as minister,” adds Mpondwana.

Caxton Local Media reported earlier today that Kodwa (54) and his co-accused, former EOH Holdings executive Jehan Mackay (47), were granted bail of R30 000 each. The duo faces charges related to the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act 12 of 2004.

Read more here: Watch: Minister Zizi Kodwa granted bail after arrest related to state capture

According to the South African Government website, Kodwa was state security deputy minister from May 30, 2019, to March 6, 2023. He also served as the spokesperson of the ANC from 2014 to 2017.

He is expected back in court on July 23.