For many years, the Free State functioned as the personal fiefdom of one of South Africa’s most prominent – and most dangerous – politicians: former drama nerd, “internal exile” and Secretary General of the African National Congress, Elias “Ace” Magashule. Nokwanda Ngombane and her family experienced firsthand the thrall Magashule held over the province from the 2000s until his fall from power in 2021, and paid the ultimate price for their role in trying to rid the Free State of factionalism and corruption.
Illustrative image |
Sources: From left — Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe, former health minister Zweli Mkhize and suspended ANC Secretary-General Ace Magashule. (Photos: Gallo Images)
Featuring:
Elias Sekgobelo “Ace” Magashule, former Free State leader and former Secretary General of the ANC
Nokwanda Ngombane, former chief of staff to former Free State premier, Beatrice Marshoff
Petrus “Pat” Zanemvula Matosa, struggle stalwart and former ANC Free State leader
Pieter-Louis Myburgh, investigative journalist at Daily Maverick Scorpio
Archive & Music Credits:
Associated Press / SABC News / eNews Channel Africa / Periscope Film / SA History Online