/ 28 January 2010

Nthai caught on tape ‘soliciting bribe’

Top senior advocate Seth Nthai was allegedly taped soliciting a bribe from Italian investors litigating against South Africa in Washington.

Business Day reported on Thursday that the investors are contesting SA’s Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act and the empowerment provisions of the Mining Charter.

The Star reported on Thursday that Italian businessman Mario Marcenaro, chief executive of Finstone, recorded Nthai and handed the alleged incriminating tapes to his barrister, Toby Landau, QC.

Landau subsequently complained to the South African state attorney, who reported the complaint to the Pretoria Bar Council.

Nthai, who has acted as a judge and has represented the government and the ANC on numerous occasions, resigned from his position as vice-chairperson of the General Council of the Bar this week and voluntarily suspended practicing as an advocate pending the finalisation of a disciplinary investigation into his alleged actions.

Nthai is represented by senior Pretoria advocate Eric Dunn.

Dunn told the Mail & Guardian Nthai denies any wrongdoing and emphasised that Nthai voluntarily stepped down from his positions after meeting the Pretoria Bar Council.

‘This should not be interpreted as an acknowledgment of any wrongdoing. It was done purely to ensure that the investigation proceed speedily,” Dunn said.

According to Dunn ‘any right-minded advocate would’ve done exactly the same thing”.