Winnie Mandela Will Get No Help From Husband

President Nelson Mandela reaffirmed his commitment Thursday to rooting out corruption, even if that means firing his estranged wife.

Mandela also said his government would not act against Winnie Mandela unless authorities can prove she abused her position as deputy minister of arts, culture, science and technology.

Police raided Winnie Mandela’s Soweto mansion Wednesday looking for evidence of allegations she took bribes and peddled her influence. She accused police of trying to discredit her, but cut short a trip to West Africa amid calls from the political opposition for her resignation.

On her return Thursday, she refused to speak to reporters at the airport but gave a clenched-fist salute to about 100 cheering supporters as she was whisked away by government security agents. She was taken to Johannesburg Supreme Court, where a hearing was set for today.

Although no warrant has been issued for Winnie Mandela’s arrest, it is the most serious investigation involving a member of Mandela’s government.

ILLUSTRATION: Photo