Dudu Myeni, known for her role as the former chairperson of South African Airways and her close ties with ex-president Jacob Zuma, has died. The Jacob Zuma Foundation announced her passing, which occurred on the evening of Friday. Mzwanele Manyi, a spokesperson for the foundation, conveyed the news with profound sadness and requested privacy for the family during this difficult time.
Myeni’s death comes amidst her ongoing legal battles, where she faced allegations of corruption within the South Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg. Her case, which was slated for continuation on November 21, 2024, had previously been deferred owing to her health issues.
In September 2023, both Myeni and Trevor Mathenjwa, former Director of Sondolo IT, were implicated in a fraud case involving N300,000, purportedly facilitated through payments from BOSASA and its affiliate, Sondolo IT. Following their arrest, they were granted bail.
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The State Capture Commission highlighted Myeni’s involvement in corrupt activities, specifically pointing to her role in manipulating political influence to benefit BOSASA, resulting in the company being awarded tenders worth R2.3 billion between 2000 and 2016. Furthermore, her actions in arranging covert meetings to protect BOSASA from legal ramifications and her participation in bypassing constitutional protocols with companies such as Falcon Oil and Gas were documented, underscoring her participation in extensive corruption networks.
As the news of her passing spreads, the foundation pleads with the media and the public to respect the grieving family’s wishes for privacy during this period of mourning.
