By Masibongwe Sihlahla

In recent months, the Sekunjalo Group has faced a series of threatening actions that many believe amount to an egregious financial assault. This coordinated attack, epitomised by the closure of banking accounts, has sparked outrage among unions and civil society, particularly highlighting the ethical responsibilities of legal professionals involved. At the heart of this issue are allegations against Aslam Moosagee, a senior attorney at ENS, who is accused of orchestrating these financially debilitating manoeuvres against Sekunjalo. This article delves into the implications of these actions, the ethical dilemmas faced by legal professionals, and the urgent need for justice.

The Information Communication Technology Union (ICTU) has made it clear that the closure of Sekunjalo's accounts is not just a corporate manoeuvre—it directly jeopardises the livelihoods of hundreds of workers. General Secretary Vulture Ntuluki has vehemently condemned the banks, particularly Nedbank, for their alleged roles in this coordinated assault, describing it as a targeted campaign aimed not at compliance but at economic exclusion.

“This is an attack on workers who had no role in the banks’ decisions,” said Ntuluki. “It’s cruel, inhumane, and destructive.” The ramifications of these closures can already be seen in the rising number of retrenchments, leaving many ordinary families struggling to make ends meet. In a nation with one of the highest unemployment rates, such actions amplify the harsh reality for thousands who depend on their jobs to support extended families.

At the center of this controversy is Aslam Moosagee, whose professional conduct raises profound ethical questions. Critics argue that there exists a troubling moral disconnect when a lawyer prioritises winning over justice. When representing clients who push for actions knowing they will harm innocent parties—such as the employees of Sekunjalo—lawyers contribute to a miscarriage of justice.

As highlighted in our discussion, Moosagee faces accusations of having a personal vendetta against Dr. Iqbal Survé, the chairman of Sekunjalo. It raises an unsettling question: Is the end justifying the means? In pursuing a course of action potentially detrimental to countless workers, Aslam Moosagee risks damaging the very fabric of trust in the legal system. A lawyer of his stature must take a moral stand against actions that threaten the livelihoods of thousands—a responsibility that comes with immense professional obligations. It is even more troublesome when a highly dignified, respected and respectable person such as Dr Iqbal Survé with proud struggle credentials must have his good name dragged through the mud in order for these faceless persons on whose behalf Aslam Moosagee is acting to achieve their parochial interests at the cost of thousands of workers.

The allegations surrounding Aslam Moosagee's involvement have led to calls for accountability from various sectors, including ICTU. They advocate for an investigation into the role of the Banking Association of South Africa (BASA) and specific banks in this coordinated attack. “This is a man who earns millions while working to destroy jobs for thousands of workers, many of whom are Black South Africans,” Ntuluki stated, further emphasising the ethical breach this represents.

Moreover, there have been inconsistencies in Nedbank's rationale for the account closures, shifting from concerns over AYO Technology Solutions to claims rooted in “reputation management.” This lack of clarity exposes a deeper agenda—driving a Black-owned business out of the market under the guise of compliance. Such practices can undermine the broader goals of black economic empowerment in South Africa, making it vital for authorities to intervene.

As public scrutiny intensifies, with Parliamentary members promising to summon major banks to provide explanations, the urgency for transparency in banking practices becomes ever clearer. The banking sector's response to these allegations will set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future and whether the underlying issues of economic exclusion will finally be addressed.

The call for justice and fairness in dealing with Sekunjalo is not only a matter affecting the company but also reflects a broader concern for the rights and dignity of workers throughout South Africa. The importance of justice in this context cannot be overstated—it is essential for fostering an equitable economic landscape where everyone has a fair chance at prosperity. Any objective observer sees nothing but Malas Fides in the persecution of Sekunjalo and the pursuit of closing their bank accounts.

In light of the ongoing crisis facing Sekunjalo, the situation serves as a clarion call for introspection within legal and financial institutions. Aslam Moosagee, and others like him, face a choice: to continue down a path that prioritises financial gain for himself and for whose bidding he is doing over ethical integrity or to champion justice for the vulnerable workers caught in the crossfire. The implications of this financial assault are grave, not only for those directly affected but for the public's trust in institutions designed to protect and serve.

The time for accountability is now. It is imperative that all parties affected by this assault come together to ensure that fairness prevails, and that the voices of workers suffering under these unjust circumstances are heard loud and clear. Justice should always triumph over mere victory in the arena of law, and it is our collective responsibility to demand it. Does Aslam Moosagee target the workers because there are no "UNINVOLVED" working at Sekunjalo?

* Masibongwe Sihlahla, Independent Writer, Political Commentator and Social Justice Activist.

** The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL or Independent Media.